March 18, 2026, 3:35 p.m. ET
Fashion designer and Elmira native Tommy Hilfiger is set to receive a prestigious award this year, but it has nothing to do with his clothing business.
Hilfiger is also a longtime car racing enthusiast, and the International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), based in Watkins Glen, plans to honor him with its prestigious Cameron R. Argetsinger Award for his “outstanding contribution to motorsports” at its annual awards gala.
The event is scheduled for Oct. 15 at the Corning Museum of Glass.
The Cameron R. Argetsinger Award, established in 2014, recognizes individuals whose influence, dedication, and leadership have made a lasting impact on the world of motorsports.
The award was named in honor of Cameron Argetsinger, who established the first post-World War II road race in the United States, held on the streets of Watkins Glen on Oct. 2, 1948.
The event established the village as one of the world’s most iconic motorsports destinations.
Past recipients of the Argetsinger award include Brian Redman (2025), Bobby Rahal (2019), and Chip Ganassi (2014), among other distinguished leaders in the sport.
“In recognition of his significant contribution to motorsports and his lifelong connection to the sport, the IMRRC is delighted to welcome Tommy Hilfiger to the distinguished group of recipients of the Cameron R. Argetsinger Award,” said IMRRC Executive Director Margaret Lawrence.
Hilfiger opened his first store, People’s Place, in Elmira in 1969 before moving to New York City and launching his namesake brand in 1985. Over the past 40 years he has partnered with athletes and teams across a variety of sports, including auto racing, most recently with Cadillac’s new F1 team.
Hilfiger’s passion began as a teenager watching through the fences at Watkins Glen International. That interest evolved into a decades-long connection between his business and the sport.
“Those races left a lasting impression on me and sparked a passion that has stayed with me throughout my life,” Hilfiger said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to be recognized by the IMRRC and to be connected to the legacy of Cameron Argetsinger and the historic racing community that helped shape the sport in America.”
The 2026 IMRRC Award Gala is open to the public, with a limited number of tickets available. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 607-535-9044, or go to imrrc-1948.square.site/s/shop.
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