Trans Am Series, Shelby American Celebrating History at VIR, COTA

CHARLOTTE (September 14, 2026) – Shelby American and the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli are celebrating Trans Am’s 60th Anniversary, bringing together the two iconic brands at VIRginia International Raceway (VIR) and Circuit of The Americas (COTA).

The partnership will also raise awareness for the Carroll Shelby Foundation (CSF), founded by Shelby in 1991, following his successful heart transplant. The Foundation, celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2026, provides financial support for families with children going through organ transplant care and educational opportunities for young people through automotive and other training programs.

During this weekend’s CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series event at VIR, the top three finishers in the TA2 class carrying the Carroll Shelby Foundation decal will earn additional prize money. First prize is worth $2,500, with $1,500 awarded to the second-highest finisher and $1,000 to third place.

The contingency program will also take place during the CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series finale at COTA, scheduled for November 5-8.

Earlier this year, Shelby American introduced a limited run of 2026 Shelby GT350/TA edition cars at Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Ariz. The sports car, inspired by Trans Am SGT category specs, honors the 60th anniversary of the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli.

In 1966, the Trans Am Series debuted the Manufacturers' Championship, which Ford Motor Company won with Shelby's help, as Shelby American-built Ford Mustangs took the 1966 and 1967 titles, playing a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the historic American road racing series. Drivers like Jerry Titus, Peter Talbert, Ira Morrison and Vic McClain raced Shelby American Group 2 Mustang notchbacks in the inaugural series.

“We drew on decades of experience to create the limited-edition 2026 Shelby GT350/TA for serious track warriors,” said Gary Patterson, President of Shelby American. “This sports car is competitive right out of the box. Our motorsports roots are deep, and we will continue to bring that championship DNA to every car we build.”

“Racing America is incredibly proud to welcome Shelby American and the Carroll Shelby Foundation as corporate partners,” said Scott Duncan, Chief Partnership Officer, Racing America. “Carroll Shelby’s name is synonymous with American performance, innovation and winning on the world stage, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of automotive and motorsports enthusiasts.

“Having Shelby American and the Carroll Shelby Foundation represented with Racing America at VIRginia International Raceway and Circuit of The Americas is a tremendous opportunity to bring that legendary heritage directly to our fans, teams and partners. We share a passion for preserving the history of motorsports while creating new experiences for the next generation.

“This partnership is about much more than racing—it’s about celebrating the Shelby legacy, the people who have carried it forward, and the future of American motorsports. We are honored to be part of that story and look forward to building something special together at VIR and COTA.”

Learn more about the Carroll Shelby Foundation at foundation.shelby.com.

The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli and CUBE 3 Architecture TA2 Series take the track at VIR later this week, September 17-20. Live coverage will be available on RacingAmerica.TV and @TheTransAmSeries on YouTube.