The 2024 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin season finale got underway Wednesday at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta with two practice sessions. McCumbee McAleer Racing drivers locked out the top three in each session, with Jeremy Fletcher turning the quickest lap of the day.
The MMR trio of Fletcher, Nate Cicero and Gresham Wagner were the only drivers able to break into the 1:35 lap times. The fastest of which, a 1:35.599 was turned by Fletcher in the afternoon session.
“I mean, can’t thank the McCumbee McAleer guys enough,” Fletcher said. “Dalton, my mechanic, Stelly, Stu, Ben, Chad, Steven and Stewart, all these guys, they all put it on for us and I’m happy we can all go out there and put on a good show. Top three, both sessions, me on top in Session 2, Nate on top in Session 1. It’s a really great feeling.”
Fletcher is the Mazda MX-5 Cup point leader coming into the finale and swept the previous race event at VIRginia International Raceway, winning both races.
“I don’t want to let it get to me and get in my own head,” Fletcher said. “I wasn’t really a big fan of this place last year. But, I kind of just have to push my personal feelings aside, go out there and do my job to the fullest. I’ve got to do it for my sponsors: The Holster Store, Home Restoration Exchange, The Gun Store, my grandparents and everyone that puts this on for me. I just want to bring home that big check.”
“That big check” is $250,000 from Mazda for the series champion. The top six drivers are covered by 200 points and all in contention to claim the big prize.
Drivers will qualify on Thursday morning and take the green flag for Race 1 at 2:15pm ET. Live streaming will be available on the RACER and IMSA YouTube channels.
