Global MX-5 Cup to conclude with Global Shootout at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

Mazda announced yesterday at SEMA the MX-5 Cup will grow in 2016 to become a global racing series. Multiple regional series will start in 2016 with the introduction of the next-generation MX-5 Cup racing car, seen in these photos.

All cars used in 2016 and beyond will be identically prepared and sold “ready to race” from a single supplier.

“Since the first Mazda MX-5 Miata took the green flag back in 1990, the car has been the ideal platform for both veterans and rookies alike,” noted John Doonan, director of motorsports for Mazda North American operations.

“Because the MX-5 is inherently such a good car to drive, it is an ideal platform to learn basic and advanced race-craft, and this has made the professional MX-5 Cup series very successful to date.”

At the end of the 2016 racing season, the Global MX-5 Cup will conclude with the Global Shootout at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in Monterey, California. The winner of the shootout will be crowned series champion and receive a one-day test in Mazda’s top-level TUDOR United States SportsCar Championship SKYACTIV prototype racer.

“We’re excited to take the elements of success of the existing Mazda MX-5 Cup series, and introduce them to a new global audience,” added Masahiro Moro, Managing Executive Officer in charge of Global Sales, Marketing and Customer Service for Mazda Motor Corporation.

“It has long been our goal to see Mazda fans around the world competing in identical MX-5s, and the launch of the 2016 MX-5 Miata is the perfect time to make this goal a reality.”

Final specifications for the 2016 cup car were not released.

For 2015, the MX-5 Cup will use continue to use third-generation MX-5 cup cars and welcome new title sponsor Battery Tender to the paddock.