TC America - Round 5

Round 5 of the TC America series takes place at Sebring International Raceway in Florida. This race brings touring car competition to one of North America's most challenging circuits. The event features two 35-minute sprint races that showcase wheel-to-wheel racing across multiple manufacturers and teams. Sebring's demanding surface and technical layout test both drivers and machinery in this mid-season championship round.

About Sebring International Raceway

Sebring International Raceway stands as North America's oldest sports car racing facility. The track opened in 1950 on the grounds of Hendricks Field, a former World War II B-17 training base. The circuit measures 3.74 miles in length and features 17 turns that challenge drivers with varied corner speeds and surface conditions.

The track combines 3.04 miles of asphalt with 0.7 miles of concrete runway surfaces from the original airbase. These concrete sections date back to 1941, and the transitions between surfaces create unique challenges for race teams. The front straight retains the original concrete poured during the war years. Turn 17, a fast right-hand corner with significant bumps, requires precise car control and setup.

Sebring provides complete paddock access for fans, allowing close views of team operations and car preparations. The facility's location near Sebring, Florida makes it accessible for spectators throughout the southeastern United States.

TC America Series Format

The TC America series has streamlined its class structure for the 2026 season. The TCX and TC classes have merged into a single TC class, while the TCA class has been eliminated. This consolidation creates larger grids and more competitive racing throughout each event.

Each weekend follows a two-race format with 35-minute sprint races. This structure emphasizes quick starts, strategic positioning, and consistent performance across both races. Points are awarded for each race, making every session important for championship contenders.

Competitors and Manufacturers

Multiple manufacturers compete in TC America, including Acura, BMW, Hyundai, Mazda, MINI, and Toyota. These brands supply factory-built or factory-supported race cars that meet series technical specifications. Teams such as Skip Barber Racing, Ricca Autosport, and JMF Motorsports field entries in the championship.

The TC class represents the primary category for the 2026 season. Cars in this class balance performance through technical regulations that promote close racing and competitive parity across different manufacturers.

Technical Considerations at Sebring

The rough surface at Sebring International Raceway demands specific car preparation. Teams must set up suspension systems to handle the concrete sections while maintaining speed through smoother asphalt areas. The bumpy nature of the track tests durability and can expose weaknesses in car preparation.

TC America uses technical regulations that specify turn-key race car requirements. These rules ensure close competition and safe racing across the field. The series focuses on production-based touring cars that maintain some connection to their road-going counterparts.

What Makes This Race Notable

Sebring International Raceway brings significant racing heritage to the TC America calendar. The facility hosted the first Formula One race in the United States in 1959. The venue is known for endurance racing, particularly the 12 Hours of Sebring, which has run since 1952.

The track's World War II origins give it character that modern purpose-built circuits cannot replicate. The concrete runway sections and bumpy surface create a test different from most touring car venues. Driver skill and car setup play crucial roles in success at this circuit.

Following Round 5

This mid-season race at Sebring International Raceway offers important championship points in the TC America series. The two-race format provides multiple opportunities for position changes and strategic battles. The demanding circuit often produces varied results across both races as teams adapt to track conditions and setup requirements.

Fans can observe the action from multiple vantage points around the 3.74-mile circuit. The paddock access allows for up-close views of the touring cars and team operations between racing sessions.