TC America - Round 9

Round 9 of the TC America series returns to Road America in Wisconsin for the 2026 season. The Stéphane Ratel Organisation manages this competitive touring car series, which showcases factory-built and factory-supported race cars from multiple manufacturers. Road America provides one of the most challenging venues on the calendar, with its combination of high-speed sections and technical corners spread across 4.048 miles of classic American road racing.

Race Format and Classes

The TC America series features a two-race sprint format at each round. The 2026 season continues with a streamlined class structure, featuring a single TC class that combines competitors into one competitive field. This unified approach creates close racing between different manufacturers and teams throughout each race weekend.

The series applies Balance of Performance regulations to ensure fair competition across various car models. The Stéphane Ratel Organisation adjusts these specifications to equalize performance between different platforms, which promotes close battles on track regardless of manufacturer.

The Road America Circuit

Road America sits in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, positioned between Milwaukee and Green Bay. The circuit stretches 4.048 miles and contains 14 turns that test both driver skill and car setup. The track combines long straights where cars approach 200 mph with technical sections that require precision.

Track Characteristics

The circuit maintains its original configuration from 1955, preserving its classic layout. Elevation changes add complexity throughout the lap. The famous "kink" on the long back straight stands as one of the most challenging sections, taken at high speed with commitment required from drivers.

The FIA grades Road America as a Grade Two circuit, reflecting its high standards for international competition. Open seating surrounds the property, with grandstands and natural hillside viewing areas that provide views of multiple sections of the track. The facility also includes the Briggs & Stratton Motorplex, a dedicated karting circuit measuring 0.8 miles.

Competing Manufacturers and Teams

TC America attracts participation from numerous manufacturers. Acura, Audi Sport, BMW Motorsports, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, MINI, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, and Volkswagen all field entries in the series. Teams such as Skip Barber Racing and JMF Motorsports compete regularly, bringing professional operations to each round.

The series requires factory-built or factory-supported turn-key race cars, which ensures a high level of preparation and performance. This regulation creates a competitive environment where professional teams and manufacturers can showcase their engineering and racing capabilities.

What Makes This Round Special

Road America stands among the longest and fastest circuits in North American motorsports. The combination of speed and technical demand creates a unique challenge for touring car racing. The track rewards drivers who can balance aggression with precision, particularly through the high-speed sections that define the circuit.

The natural terrain provides excellent spectator viewing opportunities across the entire property. Fans can move between different vantage points to watch various sections of the race, experiencing the cars from multiple perspectives throughout the race weekend.

Technical Competition

The Balance of Performance system creates close competition between different car models and manufacturers. The regulations allow various platforms to compete on equal terms, which produces tight racing throughout the field. Lap times between competitors often separate by fractions of a second, making strategy and execution critical factors.

Round 9 at Road America offers touring car racing on a circuit that demands complete performance from both driver and machine. The combination of speed, technical corners, and elevation changes provides a comprehensive test for all competitors in the TC America series.