Michael Cooper

Michael Cooper, born on September 1, 1989, is an accomplished American race car driver. A New York native, Cooper's journey into motorsports began unconventionally when his brother signed him up for the Bob Lutz Cadillac CTS-V Challenge in 2009. Despite the wet conditions at Monticello Motor Club, Cooper's natural talent shone through, catching the eye of GM Factory Driver Johnny O'Connell. This led him to the Skip Barber Racing School and the Mazdaspeed Challenge in 2010, marking the start of his professional career at age 19.

Cooper quickly ascended the ranks, making his debut in the Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup, where he secured a win in his very first race and finished fourth overall in the championship. The following year, 2011, saw him clinch the Playboy Mazda MX-5 Cup title with an impressive record of six poles and five wins in nine races. This victory earned him a full-season ride in the Pirelli World Challenge Touring Car (TC) division for the subsequent year.

In 2015, Cooper showcased his versatility by transitioning to the GTS class of the Pirelli World Challenge with Blackdog Speedshop, driving a Z/28.R. He continued his winning streak, claiming the GTS championship with four race wins and two additional podium finishes. In 2016, Cooper was appointed as a factory driver for GM, partnering with Johnny O'Connell in the Pirelli World Challenge, piloting the Cadillac Racing ATS-V.R. Throughout that season, he achieved two wins and seven podiums, ultimately finishing third in the championship.