The motorsports world is mourning the unexpected loss of one of its most respected leaders. Michael Printup, former president of Watkins Glen International and chief operating officer of Racing America, died suddenly at age 60, the organization confirmed January 1.
Printup’s death represents a significant loss for an industry where he spent nearly three decades building relationships and driving innovation across multiple racing disciplines. His influence extended from NASCAR’s premier facilities to vintage racing organizations, touching virtually every corner of American motorsports.
Racing America released a statement expressing the organization’s grief over Printup’s passing. “Racing America is devastated to confirm the sudden passing of Chief Operating Officer Michael Printup,” the statement read. “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.”
The organization extended condolences to Printup’s family, friends, and colleagues throughout the racing community.
Printup’s journey in motorsports began in 2000 when he joined International Speedway Corp. He started as senior director of facility management at Michigan International Speedway, where he quickly established himself as a capable leader with an eye for operational excellence.
His talents did not go unnoticed. In 2009, Printup was named president of Watkins Glen International, one of NASCAR’s most historic and challenging venues. The appointment marked the beginning of a 15 year tenure that would transform the upstate New York facility.
Under Printup’s leadership, Watkins Glen underwent $56 million in capital improvements that modernized the facility while preserving its legendary character. The track’s unique position as NASCAR’s premier road course presented distinct challenges, but Printup embraced the opportunity to expand the venue’s reach beyond traditional stock car racing.
His vision extended the facility’s footprint into other motorsports disciplines and entertainment ventures, creating new revenue streams while maintaining Watkins Glen’s reputation as one of the most beloved stops on the NASCAR calendar.
Printup’s responsibilities extended well beyond Watkins Glen during his NASCAR years. He also served as president of Americrown, where he oversaw the Levy food service contract for 12 NASCAR owned racetracks. This role gave him insight into the operational complexities of running multiple major motorsports facilities simultaneously.
The experience managing food service operations across a dozen tracks provided Printup with a unique perspective on fan experience and venue management. His work in this area helped establish standards that enhanced the race day experience for millions of fans across NASCAR’s premier facilities.
In July 2023, Printup embarked on a new chapter in his career when he joined Racing America as president of the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA). The move represented a shift from the high profile world of NASCAR to the more intimate community of vintage racing enthusiasts.
His success in the role was immediate and impressive. Just six months later, in January 2024, Printup was promoted to chief operating officer of Racing America. In this expanded role, he oversaw the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli along with all racing operations for the organization.
The promotion reflected Racing America’s confidence in Printup’s ability to bring his NASCAR experience to bear on different racing disciplines. His understanding of both large scale facility management and the nuances of motorsports operations made him an ideal fit for the diverse portfolio of racing series under the Racing America umbrella.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Printup was known throughout the industry for his collaborative approach and genuine passion for motorsports. Colleagues consistently described him as someone who understood that racing success depended on building strong relationships across all levels of the sport.
A native of Hamburg, New York, Printup remained connected to his Western New York roots throughout his career. His work at Watkins Glen allowed him to contribute to the economic vitality of the region while advancing his own career in motorsports.
Printup is survived by his wife Stephanie, sons Brendan (married to Caitlin) and Matthew, and granddaughters Sophia and Vivienne. His family was a constant source of support throughout his demanding career in an industry that requires extensive travel and long hours.
Printup’s influence on motorsports extended far beyond the specific roles he held. His nearly three decades in the industry coincided with significant changes in how racing venues operate and engage with fans. His work helped establish best practices that continue to influence facility management across the sport.
At Watkins Glen, his capital improvement projects not only enhanced the fan experience but also improved safety and operational efficiency. The investments made during his tenure positioned the facility for continued success in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.
His transition to Racing America demonstrated his versatility and commitment to motorsports beyond the NASCAR sphere. The vintage racing and Trans Am communities benefited from his experience and fresh perspective on growing their respective audiences.
Michael Printup’s unexpected death at 60 cuts short a career that was still making significant contributions to motorsports. His work touched multiple racing disciplines and influenced countless individuals throughout the industry.
From his early days managing facilities at Michigan International Speedway to his recent leadership role at Racing America, Printup consistently demonstrated the kind of vision and execution that drives the sport forward. His legacy will live on in the improved facilities, enhanced fan experiences, and strengthened organizations he helped build.
The motorsports community has lost a respected leader whose passion for racing was matched only by his commitment to excellence in everything he undertook. Michael Printup’s contributions to the sport will be remembered and appreciated for years to come.
