USTCC East Round 5  

New Jersey Motorsports Park

Thunderbolt Raceway

The United States Touring Car Championship (USTCC) East closed out its 2026 season with Round 5 at New Jersey Motorsports Park Thunderbolt Raceway (2.25-mile). Cold morning temperatures (about 33°F) that warmed through the day challenged teams' setup and tire-pressure choices, but delivered close, clean racing for fans.

Key results and highlights

• TC (Touring Car)

  • Race Winner & 2026 TC Champion: Patryk Tararuj — Subaru BRZ

  • Strong podium contenders: Daniel Szwarc — Nissan 370Z; Robert Benson — VW Jetta

  • Notes: Tararuj converted race pace into the championship, while Szwarc and Benson delivered tight, competitive battles throughout the weekend.

• Super Touring (ST)

  • Race Winner: Martin Szwarc — Honda Civic

  • 2nd place & 2026 ST Champion: Andrew Conner — BMW E90

  • Notes: Szwarc held off repeated challenges from Conner, with inches separating the two on several laps; Conner’s consistent results were enough to secure the season title.

• Looking Ahead: With the 2026 title fights wrapped up, teams are officially heading back to the garage to start wrenching and getting ready for 2027.