The Mazda Motorsports project to develop a TCR version of the Mazda 3 has been cancelled according to reports, with Mazda USA blaming the economic situation precipitated by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The new car was announced in October 2019 for a planned 2020 début, with the car initially set to be developed by Long Road Racing.
However, Long Road Racing then ceased operations, with development passing to Flis Motorsports, which handled the global Mazda MX-5 racing car preparation.
Grass Roots Motorsports has reported that the programme has now been completely shelved.
“Given the recent conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) has elected to cancel the development program for the Mazda3 TCR car,” said a spokesperson from Mazda.
“We thank all our fans and partners for their continued support for Mazda Motorsports.”