January 7, 2026 – Woody Heimann, a synonymous name with JTR Motorsports, will return to the team for a sixth consecutive season in 2026, continuing a long-standing partnership in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup championship. Heimann will compete behind the wheel of the #82 JTR Motorsports–prepared Mazda as he looks ahead to a full and competitive 2026 campaign.
Heimann’s return follows a 2025 season that saw him compete in only two races, limiting his opportunity to contend for consistent results. Previously, Heimann finished 13th in the championship standings in 2023 and 15th in 2024, demonstrating steady performance in one of the most competitive single-make series in North America. With a renewed focus and a full-season effort planned for 2026, Heimann has set his sights on regular top-ten finishes that can propel him further up the championship standings.
“I’m extremely excited to get back on track in 2026 and to do it once again with JTR Motorsports,” expressed an excited Heimann. “This team has become like family to me over the years, and there’s no place I’d rather be. I’m motivated, focused, and ready to put together a consistent season and fight for the results we know we’re capable of.”
From the team’s perspective, Heimann’s return adds experience and continuity to an already strong lineup.
“Bringing Woody back into the fold was an easy decision for us,” added Dave Thomas, Team Manager of JTR Motorsports. “He’s been a key part of our program for several seasons, and everyone on the team enjoys working with him. We’re looking forward to assisting Woody in achieving his goals for 2026 and giving him everything he needs to be competitive throughout the season.”
The 2026 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup season will officially begin with the first two wheel-to-wheel races of the year at Daytona International Speedway, taking place January 21–23 during the famed Rolex 24 at Daytona weekend.
For more information on JTR Motorsports Engineering, please contact Dave Thomas via email at HERE or visit their website at www.JTRMotorsportsEngineering.com.