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Mazda's Legendary 787B Set to Thrill Fans at Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

Mazda Motorsports is gearing up to captivate fans at the upcoming 2026 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, where the iconic Mazda 787B will take center stage. This legendary car, known for its unparalleled rotary engine, has made waves in the world of motorsports since its groundbreaking victory at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans. This event promises to be a historic moment for both Mazda and American racing enthusiasts, as it will be the first opportunity for many fans to witness this piece of motorsport history up close.

The 787B: A Symbol of Innovation

The Mazda 787B, adorned in its distinctive Renown livery, features a remarkable 2.6-liter four-rotor Wankel engine, known for its unique sound that has become synonymous with the brand. During the rally, the car will fulfill demonstration laps and live engine fire-ups throughout all four days of the event. Fans will undoubtedly thrill to the high-pitched, spine-tingling roar of the rotary engine, an auditory highlight of the reunion that resonates with the rich history of Mazda's racing legacy.

Jonathan Applegate, Mazda Motorsports Senior Manager, expressed his excitement for the event, stating, "What a thrill to have the 787B joining us in Monterey. That sound and that livery are synonymous with Mazda's victory at Le Mans. It's a treat for fans to experience it in person in the U.S. alongside our Heritage Collection."

A Showcase of Mazda's Racing Legacy

At the reunion, the 787B will not only shine on its own but will be flanked by an impressive collection of Mazda racing cars spanning six decades. Fans can look forward to seeing the 1967 Cosmo Sport, marking the inception of Mazda's rotary engine legacy, along with other remarkable vehicles like the 1989 767B-002, the 1990 787-002, and the 1992 RX-792P. Together, this lineup paints a comprehensive picture of Mazda's engineering triumphs that have redefined motorsport.

The influence of the Mazda 787B in automotive circles stretches beyond mere engineering. The reunion will also gather celebrated drivers who are linked to these iconic machines. For instance, seasoned racers such as Tristan Nunez and Tom Long will maneuver the 767B and 787 in Group C formats, while the legendary Japanese endurance racer Yojiro Terada will showcase the 787B during the Japanese Cars Exhibition Sessions. Moreover, IMSA racing veteran Tommy Kendall will highlight his own championship-winning Mazda RX-7 from the 1986/1987 seasons, further adding to the event's prestige.

Mazda's Broader Presence at the Event

Mazda's showcase will separate itself from the track too, as Ikuo Maeda, the Executive Fellow of Design and Brand Style at Mazda, alongside Brad Audet, Chief Marketing Officer for Mazda North America, will be guest judges at the illustrious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance following the reunion. This highly exclusive event is recognized as the zenith of automotive celebration, featuring fewer than 200 invited cars yearly, and this year, both the 787 and 787B will be on display, included in the coveted Japanese Motorsports class.

The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is scheduled to take place from August 12 to 15 at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, with the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance following on August 16. Tickets are readily available for purchase at weathertechraceway.com, while fans unable to attend in person can catch all the action through livestreams on the track’s social media platforms.

Mazda's commitment to showcasing its rich racing history and engineering prowess continues to resonate deeply with automotive aficionados. At the heart of this dedication is a desire to create lasting memories and a sense of community among enthusiasts, making this year's events must-see experiences for fans of motorsport and car enthusiasts alike. As the excitement builds toward summer 2026, the roar of the 787B is sure to echo far beyond the racetrack, captivating all who hear it.