CHARLOTTE — Racing America announced that Ken Thwaits has been named Chief Operating Officer, succeeding the late Michael Printup.
Thwaits will oversee all race series operations across Racing America’s portfolio, including the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli, Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA), Formula Regional Americas Championship (FR Americas), Formula 4 United States Championship (F4 U.S.), Ligier Junior Formula Championship (Ligier JFC), and International GT.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Ken as our Chief Operating Officer,” said Lee Giannone, CEO of Racing America. “His previous involvement in our paddocks gives him a unique and valuable perspective, and when paired with his strong business acumen, we are confident he will make an immediate impact during an exciting period of growth for our company.”
A racer at heart, Thwaits’ career embodies the spirit of Racing America. His journey began with an SVRA competition license and ultimately led him to the Trans Am Series, where he captured the 2020 XGT National Championship while competing with his own team, Showtime Motorsports.
Thwaits brings more than 40 years of experience across the automotive industry, professional motorsports, and aviation. Most recently, he served in the Trans Am paddock as Team Principal for Drissi Motorsports and competed in the TA Cup class in Trans Am’s Western Championship.
“I am extremely excited to take on this new role at Racing America,” said Thwaits. “My goal is to combine my business and logistics experience with what I’ve learned as a team owner and driver to help teams thrive. I’m passionate about elevating promotion, growing fan engagement, and showcasing everything from our stars of tomorrow to the racecars that made history—and, of course, the fastest sedans on earth.”
Thwaits is a licensed pilot with multiple jet and turboprop type ratings, and has extensive experience in aviation-related businesses. He is also the owner of Franklin Road Apparel, co-founder of Precision Dynamics International, and founder and principal of Showtime Motorsports. His background includes building and scaling successful ventures, with deep expertise in team leadership, brand activation, and high-performance driver development.
Thwaits will officially join the Racing America team as the 2026 race season begins in just two weeks at Sebring International Raceway, February 26–March 1.
