Sheboygan has been selected to host the inaugural Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge

Sheboygan has been selected to host the inaugural Mercury Racing Midwest Challenge, a powerboat racing event, from August 11-13. The event, organized by international marine motorsport promoter Powerboat P1, the Formula One Championship Series, and Mercury Racing, will feature the top categories of U.S. powerboat racing, including the UIM Class-1 World Championship, F1 Powerboat Championship, and various offshore racing classes. Over 40 race teams are expected to participate, including competitors from Australia, Italy, Sweden, Canada, and Norway.

The Pit Area for race teams preparing their boats will be located at Deland Park and Harbor Centre Marina, while Fan Zones with vendors, merchandise, activities, and free viewing of the races will be set up for powerboat fans, Sheboygan residents, and tourists. A ticketed VIP hospitality suite will also be available, offering a catered lunch, open bar, lounge seating, and televisions to enhance the viewing experience.

In announcing the event, Mayor Ryan Sorenson expressed excitement for the opportunity to show off the city’s “pristine shoreline” and Lake Michigan, which he called “our number-one natural resource.” He added that the event is another example of why Sheboygan is known as the “Malibu of the Midwest.”

The General Manager of Mercury Racing, Stuart Halley, praised Sheboygan’s beautiful water, lodging options, outdoor recreation space, and local government group that was eager to learn more about powerboat racing and host the event. He also noted that the location is less than an hour from Mercury Marine’s corporate headquarters in Fond du Lac.

The tentative agenda for the event includes a downtown block party on Friday, August 11, featuring live music, food, and beverage, and an opportunity to meet the race teams and see the boats up-close. The race weekend kicks off on Saturday, August 12, with F-1 Powerboat racing