Speedway fans in New Zealand are in for a treat this summer, as the current USAC Midget Car Champion Cannon McIntosh is set to race down under for Way Motorsport, stepping in for Buddy Kofoid, who is unavailable to compete. At just 22, McIntosh has already made a name for himself as one of the most exciting talents in the midget racing world, and his arrival promises to bring speed, skill, and drama to tracks from Baypark Speedway to Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway.

From Oklahoma to the Global Stage

Cannon McIntosh’s journey began in Bixby, Oklahoma, where he first honed his racing skills on local dirt tracks. Early on, his natural speed and fearless driving style marked him as a future star. He honed his craft with Keith Kunz Motorsports, one of the top teams in the United States, and quickly climbed the ranks of the highly competitive midget scene.

Over the past few years, Cannon has shown remarkable versatility and composure, adapting to different cars, tracks, and racing formats. His results speak for themselves: in 2024, he claimed both the POWRi Midget Championship and the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Championship, cementing his status as a rising star.

A Record of Achievement

McIntosh’s list of accomplishments is already impressive:

2024 POWRi Midget Champion
2024 Xtreme Outlaw Midget Champion
Current USAC National Midget points leader
2× BC39 Winner at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Multiple Chilli Bowl preliminary night wins

Highlights include his two historic victories at the BC39, one of the most prestigious midget races in the world, where he demonstrated not just raw speed, but race intelligence — coming from deep in the field to take the win. Multiple preliminary night victories at the Chilli Bowl Nationals, often described as the “Super Bowl” of midget racing, further underscore his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

Why New Zealand?

The opportunity to race in New Zealand comes at a pivotal time for both Cannon and Way Motorsport. Buddy Kofoid, a former Way Motorsport driver and Current New Zealand Midget car champion, as well as a World Of Outlaws Sprintcar Driver, was slated to compete but became unavailable.

Cannon steps into that role, providing the team with a world-class replacement and giving fans a glimpse of international midget racing talent.

For Cannon, racing in New Zealand offers a unique challenge: different track conditions and a passionate fan base unlike anything in the United States. It’s a chance to broaden his experience, adapt his race craft to new conditions, and leave a mark on an international stage.

New Zealand Race Schedule

Cannon McIntosh’s New Zealand campaign is set to be packed with action, with appearances at both Baypark Speedway in Tauranga and Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway:

December 26 – Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway
December 27 – Baypark Speedway
December 28 – Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway
December 30 – Baypark Speedway
January 3 – Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway
January 5 – Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway

Fans attending these events can expect high-speed battles, close finishes, and the signature daring maneuvers that have become Cannon’s hallmark. For Way Motorsport, his presence ensures the team remains highly competitive and a focal point of every race weekend.

Off-Track Impact

Cannon’s arrival is not just about racing. It’s an opportunity to inspire local drivers and fans, showcase international talent, and draw attention to New Zealand speedway on the global stage. For young drivers, his path demonstrates the importance of hard work, adaptability, and racing intelligence. For sponsors and teams, it offers heightened exposure and the chance to align with an emerging international star.

The Track Ahead

As the big Christmas/New Year shows approach and the engines roar back to life at Baypark and for the first time, for Open Wheel drivers at the new Lucas Oil Auckland Speedway, all eyes will be on Cannon McIntosh. But if his career so far is any indication, Cannon will rise to the occasion. Expect speed, drama, and unforgettable racing moments — the kind that only a driver of Cannon McIntosh’s calibre can deliver.