Mazda Motorsports is proud to announce that the nominees for both the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout and the Spec MX-5 Shootout have been selected. In a change from previous years, the list of drivers invited to this prestigious event will remain confidential, emphasizing Mazda’s focus on a more intimate evaluation process.
Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout
Building on nearly two decades of success, the Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout continues to be a cornerstone for advancing talented drivers to the professional ranks. The 2024 Shootout will once again provide emerging racers with significant career opportunities. The winner will receive a $150,000 scholarship to compete in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin. Additionally, scholarships worth $100,000 each will be awarded to the runner-up and the top female driver. With a total of $350,000 in scholarships available, this year’s Shootout marks an increase of nearly $100,000 compared to previous years, highlighting Mazda’s dedication to supporting the next generation of racing talent.
Nominees for the Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout are selected through a combination of automatic and at-large nominations. Automatic nominees are drivers who have clinched national championships in Mazda-powered vehicles, such as those in NASA and SCCA. Meanwhile, at-large nominees include talented racers who have demonstrated exceptional skills, with many of these drivers being selected from the Spec MX-5 talent pool.
“The response to this program continues to be impressive, which makes it very difficult to get down to 12 finalists,” said Mazda Motorsports Senior Manager Jonathan Applegate, “Just look at Westin Workman—he’s a perfect example of what this program is all about. After winning both the Spec MX-5 and the MX-5 Cup Shootouts, he’s had an incredible debut season in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin, securing two wins and earning the title of Rookie of the Year for 2024. We anticipate the same level of success from this year’s Shootout winners.”
The selection process for the Mazda MX-5 Cup Shootout goes beyond just fast lap times. Mazda focuses on drivers who show potential to succeed both on and off the track, requiring each nominee to submit a video application detailing their career plans, sponsorship strategies, and long-term vision for their racing journey. Finalists from this process will compete for the coveted scholarships and a chance to take a significant step toward a professional racing career.
Mazda Spec MX-5 Shootout
Now entering its fifth year, the Mazda Spec MX-5 Shootout remains a crucial part of Mazda’s mission to identify and develop future stars in sports car racing. One of the highlights for the 2024 Spec MX-5 Shootout is the inclusion of 10 female nominees, representing over 20% of the total candidate list—a new record for the program. This milestone underscores Mazda’s commitment to fostering greater diversity and creating opportunities for female racers in motorsports.
The Spec MX-5 Shootout offers two standout drivers the opportunity to join the Mazda Factory Club Racing Team, competing in select SCCA Super Tour events in the Spec MX-5 presented by Toyo Tires class. The winners will receive a complete arrive-and-drive season package, covering race entry fees, travel expenses, testing, and participation in the SCCA Runoffs.
“The Mazda Spec MX-5 Shootout was designed to offer young racers a clear pathway into sports cars in order to develop for a professional career,” said Mazda Motorsports Business Development Manager Josh Smith. “Many aspiring drivers focus solely on open-wheel or stock car racing and overlook the vast opportunities available in sports car racing. This year we have also nominated more female racers than ever, with the aim to prepare them at the grassroots level to be competitive at the professional level.”
Mazda Motorsports remains committed to helping young talent build sustainable careers in racing by providing them with opportunities to shine, both in the MX-5 Cup and Spec MX-5 Shootouts. This year’s events are poised to showcase a new wave of racing talent and continue Mazda’s legacy of supporting drivers as they rise through the ranks.