Global MX-5 Cup Champion Ortiz Joins Atlanta Speedwerks

Photo: Brian Ortiz Racing

Reigning Battery Tender Global Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by BFGoodrich champion Bryan Ortiz has joined Atlanta Speedwerks for the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season.

Ortiz, who was due to receive a full-season drive in a Mazda3 TCR this year as his prize for winning the single-make series, will join Nikko Reger at the wheel of the No. 94 Honda Civic Type-R TCR for next weekend’s season-opener at Daytona.

Mazda’s TCR racer has been delayed by a year due to “unforeseen issues” in the development of the car, prompting Ortiz to secure an alternative ride.

While both new to the Todd Lamb-led team, Reger is also a former MX-5 Cup champion.

“I am looking forward to the season and a new opportunity after a very strong 2019,” said Ortiz.

“Having a very strong teammate in Nikko, a dedicated team in Atlanta Speedwerks, and knowing there are big chances to fight for the win is what racing is all about.”

Reger added: “Having raced wheel to wheel against Bryan in the past, I can tell you from experience I am glad we are on the same team now and not racing against one another.”

Lamb and Brian Henderson, meanwhile, will return for a second consecutive year in the team’s No. 84 Honda TCR, which led numerous races last year.

“I learned so much last year about front wheel drive, and I’ve been working hard in the off-season to be fully prepared for this year. Coming off of last season, I am confident in our team and our equipment,” Henderson said.

A total of 18 TCR cars, an all-time IMSA record in the class, are set to do battle in the BMW Endurance Challenge on Fri. Jan 24.

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John