This is a great way for us to grow the series and reach an audience of enthusiasts who may not have had the chance to see an MX-5 Cup race in person”, noted Jim Jordan, Alternative Marketing Manager, Mazda North American Operations.

“We are excited to be working with Mazda on this program and can't wait for the season to begin,” said Playboy Vice President and Publisher Lou Mohn. “We look forward to putting all of Playboy's brand assets into high gear to leverage this initiative and reach racing enthusiasts and Playboy fans alike.”

SCCA Pro Racing President and CEO Robert Wildberger remarked “We're excited to have such an established brand associated with what is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new series.”

The most raced car in the world is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. On any given weekend, half of the cars competing in SCCA Club Racing events are Mazda-brand vehicles, while thousands more autocross their daily driver Mazdas.

The MX-5 can be raced in a variety of configurations within many different clubs, with classes for every vintage of Mazda from showroom stock to all-out racer. For those looking to try their hand in professional racing, the MX-5 Cup is the ideal place. The cars are affordable, the racing is close, the venues are fantastic, and the races are televised.

The MX-5 Cup champion also receives a Mazda-supported ride in the following year's SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship. This prize is valued at $250,000. 2007 MX-5 Cup Champion Jason Saini will be racing in the 2008 SPEED World Challenge in a MAZDA 6 .