Teen Mazda Factory Driver Lands Major Local Sponsor

Oshkosh’s Ethan Jacobs competed in the 4th annual Mazda Spec MX-5 Shootout and was carefully chosen as one of three young drivers from across the country to earn a spot on the Mazda Motorsports Club Racing Factory Team for 2024. Gaining the attention of Wisconsin’s #1 Mazda dealer, the 17-year old high school senior has earned the backing of Holiday Automotive in Fond du Lac, as well.

“Mazda’s laser-focus on building engaging, driver-centric vehicles goes hand-in-hand with its rich motorsports history,” said Ben Wempner, General Sales Manager at Holiday Mazda. “When we heard a kid from our market landed a ride with Mazda Motorsports, we had to meet him. Talking to Ethan, we could tell right away that he shared our values of excellence, hard work, and a drive to be the very best.”

Jacobs had a successful rookie racing season, capturing the Central Division Spec Miata Championship in 2023, and being named the SCCA Milwaukee Region Rookie of the Year. As one of 40 invitees to the Mazda Shootout, the 17-year old high school senior impressed Mazda with his lap times, media skills, and coachability and was offered the opportunity to drive for Mazda Motorsports.

“Driving with Mazda’s grassroots racing program is a huge step,” Jacobs noted. “At the same time, it’s important to never lose track of where I come from. Having my local Mazda dealer supporting me as I travel the country, chasing success in my Spec Miata is really special.”

Fans of racing can track his progress online as Jacobs competes nationwide in his Mazda Miata racecars, but there’s nothing like attending a race in person. Fans can watch him race at Elkhart Lake’s Road America during the WeatherTech SCCA June Sprints – June 21-23, as well as the SCCA National Championship Runoffs – October 4-6.