The number one brand in road racing returns to the biggest motorsports trade show in the country to make a few early announcements for the 2012 season. The MAZDASPEED team gathered at the annual Performance Racing Industry show to share updates on a variety of topics.

1.The SpeedSource Grand-Am GT RX-8 team revealed their 2012 graphics and their Rolex 24 at Daytona driver line-up. Joining full-season drivers Sylvain Tremblay and Jonathan Bomarito are Marino Franchitti and James Hinchcliffe. Both are Mazda alums, Marino from ALMS and James from the Atlantic and Star Mazda Championships. The new graphics on the #70 RX-8 will showcase the MAZDASPEED corporate look as long-term partner Castrol transitions into an associate sponsor role for 2012.

2.Grand-Am RX-8 team Dempsey Racing announced their 2012 driver line-ups for their two car team. Joe Foster will partner with Patrick Dempsey, while Charles Espenlaub and Charlie Putman will team up for the season. Tom Long will be the team understudy when Patrick's 'other' career schedule precludes his racing, as well as joining the team for the Rolex 24. The team will expand their partnership with VISITFLORIDA.com for the 2012 season.

3.Mazda announces upcoming availability of Mazda2 "B-Spec" kits. The race-ready Mazda2 will be on display at the show. Parts kits will be available in the first quarter of 2012 for approximately $2600.

4.Mazda announces updates to the SCCA Pro Racing Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup including the addition of a class for Skip Barber Racing School MX-5s. 2012 Star Mazda Championship Presented by Goodyear schedule released. etc.