John Dean

John Dean II is a successful American racing driver and team owner who has made a significant impact in the Mazda Motorsports scene. Growing up immersed in the racing world, with his father being the voice of the Sebring 12-hour race for over 20 years, Dean naturally gravitated towards motorsports. He honed his skills through SCCA club racing, becoming a top ITA racer in the Florida region. To support his racing endeavors, he worked at the Skip Barber Racing School at Sebring, where he further developed his technical expertise and coaching abilities.

Dean's career reached new heights when he won the 2015 Idemitsu MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich® Tires, earning a $200,000 Mazda scholarship. This achievement propelled him forward, allowing him to balance his roles as both a racer and a team owner. In 2011, Dean started his own shop, Sick Sideways, which has since become a leading prep and performance shop for track day cars, road vehicles, and even drag racing cars. His team has achieved multiple driver's championships in MX-5 Cup, with Dean himself securing one of those titles.

Sick Sideways holds the record for the most podiums and poles in the MX-5 Cup series and has been named Team of the Year twice. Dean's success extends beyond racing, as his shop has grown significantly, offering a wide range of services dedicated to road racing and performance. John Dean II's journey exemplifies his passion, determination, and business acumen, making him a respected figure in the Mazda Motorsports community.