NASA and Mazda Announce Spec MX-5 as NASA National Class

To help foster continued growth of Spec MX-5 and to provide NASA racers more classes within the Mazda Motorsports Team Support Program, NASA and Mazda Motorsports are thrilled to announce that Spec MX-5 will become a NASA national class starting in 2026.

Existing SMX cars have always been able to slot right into NASA’s existing Super Touring 5 class, but the addition of a spec class for 2026 adds the excitement for those who want the driver focus that only spec-class racing can bring.

In addition to providing drivers a newer Mazda platform and technology than Spec Miata, Spec MX-5 was developed by Mazda Motorsports with four pillars in mind: affordability, reliability, tech-ability and fun to drive. The end result is a class with close racing at a price and performance point that slots in between Spec Miata and the MX-5 Cup, which races with IMSA.

“Now that the series is on solid footing and is positioned for greater growth, we are excited to see the Spec MX-5 series expand into NASA,” said Mazda Motorsports Business Development Manager Josh Smith. “It will be exciting to see how the expansion unfolds in NASA regions all across the country.”

NASA will be conducting tire tests and will announce the spec tire well before the beginning of the 2026 season. NASA also will follow the lead of Mazda Motorsports in moving to sealed engines beginning with the 2027 season. Adaptation of the rules is in the works and due out the end of October.

“We have worked alongside Mazda Motorsports to make this happen, to be able to offer our racers another spec racing class in the Mazda Motorsports and NASA ladder programs,” said NASA CEO Jeremy Croiset. “We look forward to welcoming Spec MX-5 racers to NASA regions across the country while fostering expanding opportunities for new teams and new car construction as we move into the 2026 season and beyond.”