Mia Lovell impresses on TransAm TA2 debut at Sebring despite technical setback

Mia Lovell impressed in her TransAm TA2 debut at Sebring with strong pace and a promising P11 qualifying, but a clutch issue cut her race short after battling through the field.

Photo credits: Nitro Motorsport

18-year-old Mia Lovell made her highly anticipated TransAm TA2 debut at Sebring International Raceway, showcasing her great potential despite an unfortunate technical issue that ended her race early.

Lovell, one of the most exciting up-and-coming talents in the series, demonstrated impressive speed throughout the weekend, proving she has what it takes to battle at the front of a field that features several specialist and highly experienced drivers.

A standout performer in the Toyota GR Cup North America over the past two years, Lovell transitioned to TransAm TA2 and joined Nitro Motorsports for the 2025 season. After a busy off-season of extensive pre-season testing, she was eager to hit the track and take on this new challenge.

Lovell wasted no time making an impression at Sebring; she quickly adapted to the car and was second-fastest in the collective test session. In qualifying, she put in a stellar performance, securing P11 out of 39 cars—a remarkable achievement for a rookie.

Under sunny skies, Lovell lined up on the sixth row of the grid in her #40 Nitro Motorsports Mustang, ready for battle. When the green flag dropped, she took the inside line into Turn 1 but got caught in heavy traffic, slipping to 18th place on the opening lap. A full-course caution was quickly deployed following multiple collisions throughout the field.

As the race prepared to go green again, another incident at the back forced drivers to take evasive action, but the race resumed, and Lovell immediately began fighting her way back up the order. She gained two positions and engaged in some intense battles, navigating the highly competitive midfield.

Further up the track, Rafa Matos, one of the series' frontrunners, was spun around, causing more chaos in the pack. Lovell had to defend against Matos as he recovered through the field, eventually conceding the position on lap 7. Another full-course caution followed soon after due to a heavy crash involving Starkweather and Menzin.

After six laps under caution, the race resumed, and Lovell restarted from 17th, determined to fight her way back. Unfortunately, on lap 13, her car suffered a clutch issue, forcing her to a stop and bringing out another yellow flag.

While the mechanical failure ended her race prematurely, her performance throughout the weekend sent a clear message—she is a serious contender in TA2.

Despite the tough break at Sebring, Mia Lovell’s pace and racecraft were undeniable; with her debut now behind her, she will shift her focus to the next round at Road America from March 20-23, where she will be aiming for a strong result and another step forward in her promising TransAm career.