A new program announced at the PRI Show will bring a familiar last name back to Trans Am racing. The newest Mike Cope Racing chassis produced — not a new version of the familiar blue No. 34 seen from 2015-19, but a bright red No. 17 Buffomante Racing Enterprises Mustang TA2, to be raced by 15-year-old Gian Buffomante next season.
After several successful years in karting, and experience in the Lucas Oil School of Racing, Buffomante had his first taste of sports car racing in 2023 where he drove the BRE/Capaldi Racing Spec Racer Ford to multiple podiums and fastest race laps in just six outings.
“It’s all happening so fast, that’s for sure,” said the youngest Buffomante. I learned a lot last year in SRF, and I can’t wait to race that some more, but also get a chance behind the wheel of a beast like this TA2 car. It’s going to be amazing!
Since 2019, BRE has developed racing operations in karting and SCCA Spec Racer Ford; and now adds the TA2 entry to be run out of its shop in Naperville, Ill. Tony Buffomante — the 2016 TA2 champion who ranks third all-time in TA2 wins — will serve as team principal.
“It’s been nerve racking, stressful, frustrating, rewarding, and fun all at the same time, being on the other side of the pit wall,” said the elder Buffomante. “Gian has been doing a great job learning and being smart in how he goes about his racing, he’s definitely more mature than I was at 15. What’s so cool about this program is how our former partners have jumped in to get involved. I’m so thankful for that — it makes it even more special.”
The program reunites BRE with Mike Cope Race Cars, Wilwood Racing, Koury Engines, Andrews Products, Capaldi Racing, and Hoosier Tire during the SCCA GT2 weekends.
“We will continue to be methodical in how we approach the driver development,” Buffomante said. “Our plan is to run SCCA GT2 events to learn and showcase the versatility of these cars competing in multiple series, with an eye toward the 2024 Runoffs. Additionally, we will slot-in select TA2 Club and Trans Am Pro races to gain experience, with a plan to run a full season of TA2 Pro in 2025.”
“This is so cool to see the next generation coming up,” said Mike Cope. “At MCR we pride ourselves in the relationships we’ve built over time. I can’t tell you how excited I am to see this new first name on one of our cars running around the country in GT2 and TA2 next year. Can’t wait to get him under the tent full-time in the near future!”