Printup spent nearly three decades in motorsports leadership and was widely respected across the industry.
Michael Printup, a longtime motorsports executive and former president of Watkins Glen International, has died unexpectedly at age 60, Racing America confirmed January 1. Printup most recently served as chief operating officer of Racing America, a role he assumed in January 2024 after joining the organization the summer prior.
Racing America released this statement:
Racing America is devastated to confirm the sudden passing of Chief Operating Officer Michael Printup. Michael was an icon in motorsports, a great partner and a friend. His passion for racing and commitment to the industry made a lasting impact on the sport. He will be deeply missed. Racing America sends our thoughts and condolences to Michael’s family, friends and colleagues.
Michael first joined Racing America in July 2023 as the President of Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA). In January 2024, he was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, where he oversaw the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli, as well as all racing operations. A native of Hamburg, N.Y., Michael spent nearly three decades working for NASCAR, most notably in the role of president of Watkins Glen International. He was also president of Americrown and oversaw the Levy food service contract for 12 NASCAR-owned racetracks.
Michael leaves behind his wife, Stephanie, two boys Brendan (Caitlin) and Matthew, and two granddaughters, Sophia and Vivienne.
A native of Hamburg, New York, Printup spent nearly three decades working within NASCAR and its related properties. He joined International Speedway Corp. in 2000 and was senior director of facility management at Michigan International Speedway before being named president of Watkins Glen International in 2009. He led the historic road course for 15 years, overseeing $56 million in capital improvements, and expanding the venue’s footprint beyond racing.
Printup retired from Watkins Glen in 2023, citing burnout after a long tenure, but quickly returned to the sport. At Racing America, he served as president of the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association before being promoted to COO, overseeing SVRA, the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli, and all racing operations.
Statement from IMSA:
Statement from IMSA President John Doonan on the Passing of Former Watkins Glen International President Michael Printup. pic.twitter.com/XcLHK2yE9Z
— IMSA (@IMSA) January 2, 2026
Watkins Glen International also released a statement:
Statement on the passing of Michael Printup. pic.twitter.com/Nxrf19ZTBD
— Watkins Glen International (@WGI) January 2, 2026
Category: General Sports
