Michelin Pilot Challenge GS class leader Cicero leaves MMR, takes hiatus from racing

With only three races left in the 2026 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge season, GS class championship leader Nate Cicero has parted ways with McCumbee McAleer Racing (MMR) and announced an indefinite hiatus from motorsport.

Cicero, a member of the 2026 Ford Racing Driver Development Team, joined MMR's Pilot Challenge program midway through the 2025 season and helped the team capture its first Michelin Pilot Challenge victory last year at Road America. After helping co-driver Jenson Altzman secure fourth in the 2025 GS (Grand Sport) standings, Cicero joined undefeated Mustang Challenge North America champion Robert Noaker for the 2026 campaign.

Through seven races, the drivers of the No. 13 Ford Mustang GT4 combined for three podium finishes, and a best finish of second at Watkins Glen. After last week's race at Road America, those results gave Cicero and Noaker a 100-point lead in the standings.

Then, on August 6th, Cicero abruptly announced his departure from racing, saying, “I will be taking a leave from racing to focus on personal matters and would appreciate privacy at this time. I want to thank everyone who supported me over the years.”

Five days later on August 10th, MMR released its own statement regarding Cicero's departure.

“We are disappointed to announce that our relationship with Nate Cicero has come to an end. Effective immediately, Nate is no longer associated with MMR in any capacity. We will have no further comment on the topic,” the team said.

“We remain focused on moving forward and continuing to build on MMR’s goals and success. As we look to our future, we will be making a driver announcement in the coming days.”

As a child in karting ten years ago, Cicero was mentored by MMR co-owner Stevan McAleer and his brother Stuart. Cicero's affiliation with MMR continued into his graduation to the Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup, where he took Rookie of the Year honors in 2023, finished sixth in the standings, then improved to fourth in 2024.

The next Michelin Pilot Challenge race takes place at VIRginia International Raceway on Saturday, August 22nd.