The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Shootout scholarship winner survives a chaotic season finale to bring home his best finish of the year

Gossett secures the 2026 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin title in season finale at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta

Some drivers rolled up to the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin Race 2 grid with everything to lose, while others only had winning on their minds. This mentality led to a wild battle for the Round 14 race win at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta on Friday. Parker DeLong (No. 42 PDR Racing) mastered a two-lap dash to the finish line for the victory, and Bobby Gossett (No. 44 BSI Racing) did his best to stay out of trouble and finish the race as the 2026 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup Champion.

After 45 minutes of elbows-out racing, seven lead changes, and multiple intense restarts, it was Bobby Gossett (No. 44 BSI Racing) who raced to the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin Race 1 win on Thursday. His Road Atlanta victory helped to grow his lead in the championship fight.

Jared Thomas will close an accomplished chapter of his racing career during the upcoming Motul Petit Le Mans weekend at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, where he will make his final starts as a full-time driver in Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin competition.