New Contenders Emerge in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup Presented by Michelin
As the 2025 season progresses, two newcomers in the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup are not only vying for Rookie of the Year honors but also making serious bids for the overall championship. Ethan Goulart showcased his potential with a recent victory at Mid-Ohio, driving the No. 29 Saito Motorsport Group MX-5. This win positioned him firmly in contention for both rookie accolades and the championship, following a competitive season.
Eight months prior, Goulart triumphed in the SCCA Spec Miata National Championship, making history as the youngest champion at 15 years and 174 days old. His skill was evident as he navigated the unpredictable weather conditions at Mid-Ohio, a track that was unfamiliar to him. Employing advice from his team and utilizing prior race data, Goulart capitalized on the changing grip levels to secure his first MX-5 Cup win.
“It was definitely really cool,” Goulart stated. “Being a rookie just made it 10 times more gratifying.” He expressed gratitude for the support from his team and acknowledged the significance of his recent successes, which also included a podium finish at Daytona.
The race at Mid-Ohio tested drivers with varying track conditions, shifting from wet to dry as rain intermittently fell. “The way the track dried and developed was drastic,” Goulart remarked. “Some spots would dry very quickly while others remained wet, creating an ever-changing landscape.”
Despite being new to the MX-5 Cup and facing competitors with more experience on the repaved circuit, Goulart emerged victorious, enhancing his position in the rookie standings against rival Noah Harmon.
Goulart is clearly targeting more than just Rookie of the Year honors. “I have my eye on the overall championship,” he declared, underscoring the competitive spirit that drives serious racers.
Rooted in the Mazda Motorsports ladder and with aspirations in endurance sports car racing, Goulart emphasized the MX-5 Cup as a significant stepping stone in his career. “This is the pinnacle of Mazda’s ladder; it’s incredibly competitive, and winning here elevates your presence in the IMSA paddock,” he explained.
With his first victory, Goulart is not just making a name for himself; he is laying the groundwork for a potential championship title. The series continues with rounds 9 and 10 at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, Ontario, on July 12 and 13, streamed live on RACER.com and archived on The RACER Channel on YouTube. For all updates, visit mx-5cup.com.
