Hays Named IMSA Diverse Driver Scholarship Recipient

Nicky Hays has been named by IMSA as the recipient of the Diverse Driver Scholarship for the 2026-27 seasons.

Hays, a California native who also holds Philippine citizenship, was selected from a pool of 12 drivers and will receive benefits of up to $380,000 to compete in one of four IMSA-sanctioned series, with support from IMSA and multiple corporate partners. 

He currently races in Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America with ANSA Motorsports, having taken a Pro-Am class victory at Watkins Glen.

“Nicky is a very deserving recipient of the IMSA 3D Scholarship,” said Brandon Huddleston, vice president, IMSA partnership marketing and business development.

“He’s been impressive to watch through the IMSA ladder this year as he’s gained greater sports car experience.

“He also impressed the scholarship committee with the way he applied the feedback the IMSA team provided on last year’s submission to the 2026 program he pulled together.

“IMSA is proud to name him as the newest recipient of this important initiative.”

Hays has already secured a seat for the 2026 season and is set to join Random Vandals Racing in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge.

He explained that reaching out to Random Vandals regular Kenton Koch was what ultimately led to his opportunity with the team.

“I’d reached out to Kenton in May because I saw he was racing with Random Vandals as well in another championships,” Hays said.

“I’d met him earlier this year and asked him if they had any interest in being in IMSA once again, because I knew they’d been in Michelin Pilot Challenge before. 

“It’s funny, he then asks for my contact details and then the next day I get a text from Paul Sparta [team principal].

“We hopped on a call, learning more about the scholarship and what the team’s plans might look like.

“He started watching my races in Super Trofeo, and we went back and forth, and he was a huge supporter and advocate.

“With his business background, he can sell anybody on anything in the best way. I was really confident.”

Hays also credited his mother with giving him the mentality to keep pushing and raising funds to pursue his racing career.

“She pushed me to apply to things twice if you don’t succeed at first and to not give up,” said Hays.

“She came to America [from the Philippines], lost everything, but has made a success for herself. It’s helped to push me to make a career in the industry when it may be out of reach for most people.”