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Formula DRIFT Announces 2025 Schedule

2024-11-04T17:33:22+00:00

As Formula DRIFT gears up for 2025, the series is looking at its next chapter with big updates to its calendar and a mix of familiar and fresh talent in the lineup. The recent close to the 2024 season at Irwindale Speedway carries added significance this time, marking the end of an era. In 2025, Irwindale Speedway - the iconic “House of Drift” - will lock its gates for good, breaking a 21-year streak as the setting for every FD PRO Championship showdown. With its departure, the Formula DRIFT team is already in discussions to secure a new Southern California venue that can host the action, with more details expected in the coming months.

The 2025 season will keep to its roots, hitting well-established venues across North America. The schedule kicks off in April with the Streets of Long Beach, then makes its way through Road Atlanta, Englishtown Raceway, and others before culminating in the new Southern California spot in October. This continuity is a nod to the improvements made to the tracks, ensuring competitors and fans can look forward to an elevated experience at each stop.

2025 PRO and PROSPEC Championship Schedule
Long Beach: April 4-5 (PRO)
Road Atlanta: May 8-10 (PRO/PROSPEC)
Orlando Speed World: May 30-31 (PRO)
Englishtown Raceway: June 19-21 (PRO/PROSPEC)
World Wide Technology Raceway: July 17-19 (PRO/PROSPEC)
Evergreen Speedway: August 8-9 (PRO)
Utah Motorsports Campus: August 28-30 (PRO/PROSPEC)
TBD (Southern California): October 17-18 (PRO)

2025 Driver Lineup
The provisional driver roster for both the PRO and PROSPEC championships is stacked with returning competitors and several newcomers who’ve made a name for themselves in other drift leagues. PROSPEC Champion Tommy Lemaire, along with standouts Connor O’Sullivan and Austin Matta, will step up to the PRO category. Joining them is Irish drifting icon Jack Shanahan and Australia’s Luke Fink, a champion known for bringing a crowd-pleasing style to the track.

Meanwhile, in PROSPEC, new petitions are rolling in, and drivers like 13-year-old Cameren Sorensen—the youngest of the Sorensen drift siblings—aim to make their mark in the entry-level competition.

Formula DRIFT has positioned itself for another dynamic year, and with the final roster and details on the new California venue soon to be announced, 2025 looks ready to keep fans on the edge of their seats. For tickets, livestream access, and up-to-date info on your favorite drivers, head to FormulaD.com.

November 2024 Event Calendar

2024-11-01T17:05:52+00:00

November 5-8: SEMA

Las Vegas Convention Center, NV
https://www.semashow.com/

November 9: Clean Culture Georgia

5301 Winder Hwy, Braselton
GA 30517, United States
4-10pm
https://www.cleancultureevents.com/tickets

November 16: Clean Culture NorCal

400 Ballpark Dr, West Sacramento
CA 95691, United States
4-10pm
https://www.cleancultureevents.com/tickets

November 10-12: GTA Finals Buttonwillow Raceway Park

24551 W Lerdo Hwy, Buttonwillow
CA 93206, United States
https://www.motorsportreg.com/events/2023-gta-finals-buttonwillow-raceway-park-global-time-attack-522846

November 22-23: Hotpit Autofest - The Lockdown

Irwindale Speedway
500 Speedway Drive
Irwindale, CA 91706
1-7pm
https://tickets.thefoat.com/hotpitautofest/HOTPIT+AUTOFEST+ROUND+5+-+SEASON+CLOSER/tickets/id-r-Ht1dUuCa5D/

Hyundai N and Toyota GR Team Up for Unlikely Collab Event

2024-10-28T17:01:05+00:00

When we first heard there was a collaboration between Toyota GR and Hyundai N, we had visions of another engine-transplant from another brand into a Toyota chassis, or vice versa, but we were pleasantly surprised to learn that this collaboration took place at the racetrack, and came in the form of an event designed to inject some fun into the South Korean automotive scene and the surrounding car culture.

In a first-of-its-kind event, the motorsport scene in South Korea got a serious adrenaline boost with the inaugural Hyundai N x TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Festival. Hosted at Yongin Speedway, this sold-out festival brought together two of the most competitive names in motorsport, Hyundai Motor and Toyota Motor Corporation, for a day packed with high-octane action.

From rally-bred performance cars to cutting-edge electric vehicles, both brands showcased their most exciting rides. Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 N Drift Spec and Toyota’s GR YARIS Rally 1 HYBRID were just a few highlights on display, underscoring the brands' commitment to performance innovation. Fans got up close with the future of high-performance cars, as the companies introduced their latest concepts, such as Hyundai’s hydrogen-powered N Vision 74 and Toyota's hydrogen-fueled AE86 H2 concept.

The stars of the show weren’t just the cars. Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung and Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda took the wheel themselves, treating fans to a thrilling show run in WRC-spec vehicles. Their hands-on participation and camaraderie underscored the friendly rivalry between the two automotive giants, as both shared their passion for driving and motorsport culture.

One of the event’s standouts was the track day program, where 60 owners of Hyundai N and Toyota GR models put their own high-performance vehicles to the test on a pro-level circuit. There were also plenty of immersive experiences, like the WRC Taxi ride-alongs and the Gymkhana Competition, where fans teamed up with pro drivers to navigate tight courses in custom Hyundai and Toyota vehicles.

Beyond the asphalt, the festival aimed to inspire future motorsport enthusiasts. All ticket proceeds were donated to the Korea Automobile Racing Association (KARA), reinforcing Hyundai and Toyota’s shared commitment to growing motorsport culture in South Korea.

As Hyundai and Toyota continue to develop next-gen performance vehicles and push the boundaries of what's possible in motorsport, this festival marks just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for fans in Korea. With both brands set to clash again at the upcoming Rally Japan, the stage is set for even more thrilling competition.

James Deane Makes FD History with 4th Pro Championship Win

2024-10-21T15:35:27+00:00

The air was electric at Irwindale Speedway on October 19, as the curtains drew on the 2024 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship season. Fans packed the stands for the Type S Title Fight, and witnessed history as James Deane solidified his legacy by clinching his fourth championship title, becoming the first driver ever to achieve this remarkable feat after surpassing fellow three-time championship winners Aasbo and Forsberg, this time in the AutoZone Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD.

As Deane rolled up to the starting line for his Top 32 heat, the tension was palpable. With enough points already secured, he was already the 2024 Formula DRIFT PRO Champion before the competition even heated up. But the night was far from over for the emotional Irish driver, who added another Round win to his illustrious career.

“I can’t believe we’ve got to this point in only our second season with car,” Deane shared with a beaming smile. “Practice was the most intense ever because there was so much to lose. I was afraid something could go wrong but relieved to get through it and be ready to enjoy this moment… As a 15 year-old kid, I could never have imagined being here!”

Deane’s 2024 season was nothing short of exciting and dominant. Despite a pre-season engine fire that had his team switching into recovery mode, Deane bounced back with an impressive win at the opening round in Long Beach. “After that, anything seemed possible,” he reflected, and indeed it was. He ended the season with four round victories, and only missed two of the eight podiums, showcasing one of the most commanding performances in Formula DRIFT history.

While Deane celebrated, the fight for the podium remained fierce. Fredric Aasbo, piloting his Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra, secured second place in Round 8, capping off a season where he too aimed for the championship but ultimately finished third overall. Aurimas "Odi" Bakchis had been in the mix for his first title but faced challenges throughout the season, including a serious fire in Atlanta that hindered his momentum. He fought valiantly but ended up in fourth place for the night and second overall, 104 points behind Deane.

On the fringes of the spotlight was Conor Shanahan, who claimed third place at Irwindale, marking an upward swing in his rookie season. Despite borrowing a BMW for the event - “I couldn’t tell you what engine is in it,” he quipped - Shanahan managed to impress, finishing eighth overall in the championship standings. “But I’ll be back next year to ensure James doesn’t win a fifth title!” he joked, hinting at the competitive spirit that drives these young talents.

Among the remarkable stories of the evening was Hiroya Minowa, who clinched the 2024 Rookie of the Year title at just 15 years old, finishing fourth overall in the championship while demonstrating exceptional maturity behind the wheel of his Enjuku Racing / Cusco / Yellowspeed Racing Toyota GT86.

Toyota took home the 2024 Formula DRIFT Auto Cup, thanks to the efforts of Aasbo and Ryan Tuerck, while Nitto claimed the FD Tire Cup, bolstered by the impressive performances of Deane and Aasbo throughout the season.

As the dust settles on another thrilling season of Formula DRIFT, one thing is clear: James Deane has not only made history, but has set a new standard in the sport. With the competitive landscape continuously evolving, the question now lingers - who will rise to challenge Deane as he aims for a fifth title next season? We can't wait to find out.

October 2024 Event Calendar

2024-09-30T17:10:30+00:00

October 5-6: Slammedenuff - Sevierville

SEVIERVILLE CONVENTION CENTER
202 Gists Creek Rd
Sevierville, TN 37876
https://www.slammedenuff.com/sevierville-2024.html

October 6: Import Culture Season Closer

Advanced Auto Salon
45 Munham Gate, Scarborough, ON, M1P 2B3
*free event*
https://importculture.ca/

October 11-13 - GridLife Club Circuit - Pitt Race

Pittsburgh International Race Complex
Wampum, PA
https://gridlife.torkhub.com/event/309352/tickets

October 12 - CleanCulture Toronto

Toronto Motorsports Park, Toronto, CA
https://www.cleancultureevents.com/register

October 13: HAUNT Import Nights

Stockton, CA (San Joaquin County Fairgrounds)
https://hotimportnights.com/registration/

October 18-19: Formula Drift Irwindale

Irwindale, CA
https://fd.torkhub.com/event/301501/tickets

October 19: FuelFest Atlanta

Atlanta Motor Speedway, Atlanta, GA
https://fuelfest.com/atlanta/

October 19 - CleanCulture Virginia

Richmond Raceway, Henrico County, VA
https://www.cleancultureevents.com/register

October 19 - CleanCulture Arizona

Surprise Stadium, Surprise, AZ
https://www.cleancultureevents.com/register

October 26: HIN Most Wanted + MCON

Las Vegas, NV (The EXPO at World Market Center )
https://hotimportnights.com/registration/

October 26 - CleanCulture Englishtown

Old Bridge Township Raceway Park, Englishtown, NJ
https://www.cleancultureevents.com/register

October 26: ImportExpo Season Closer - Mississauga

THE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE - 6800 AIRPORT ROAD
https://checkout.eventcreate.com/importexpo-toronto-closer-show-2024/select-buy

October 27: HIN International

Sydney, AU (White Bay Cruise Terminal)
https://hotimportnights.com/registration/

Nitro Circus Returns to America in Fall 2024

2024-09-10T15:59:03+00:00

Nitro Circus is hitting the U.S. streets again, and this time, they're bringing a new wave of action sports energy for the final stretch of 2024. Thrill One Sports & Entertainment and Round Room Live have teamed up to launch an all-new tour that promises to crank up the intensity for fans across the nation. Kicking off on November 3rd in Cedar Rapids, IA, the Nitro Circus tour will make stops in key cities, offering a show that blends wild stunts, next-level talent, and a fast-paced, interactive atmosphere.

For those itching to grab their tickets, they’ll be available to the general public this Friday, September 13th, starting at 10am local time. Fans looking to jump the line can score early access through a pre-sale that’s live now. Head over to NitroCircus.com for more info on how to lock in your spot.

The 2024 Nitro Circus roster is stacked with some of the top names in action sports. Leading the charge is Ryan ‘R Willy’ Williams, an Australian phenomenon who’s notched over 100 ‘World’s Firsts’ in scooter and BMX. With more than 500 million views of his stunts across social media, Williams brings a level of energy and precision that fans can’t get enough of. Joining him on tour are legends like Adam Jones, a six-time X-Games medalist in Freestyle Motocross, and BMX icon Andy Buckworth, the first to land the superman double front flip.

The tour isn’t just about star power, though. Fans can expect to see all-new competitions, featuring Freestyle Motocross, Skate, BMX, Scooter, and Nitro’s signature ‘Crazy Contraptions.’ Every show is set to be a high-flying, trick-packed spectacle underscored by a live DJ, with new interactive elements bringing the audience even closer to the action.

For those looking to elevate their experience, the Nitro Circus Track Pass offers exclusive perks. Early entry gets you prime access to the floor, a close-up look at the FMX and BMX setups, and a chance to meet the athletes during an autograph session. The pass also includes a commemorative lanyard, a limited edition poster, and other exclusive goodies.

“Our fans are at the heart of everything we do, and this new tour is a celebration of their passion,” said Matt Cohn, CEO of Thrill One Sports & Entertainment. “We’re excited to showcase a new generation of athletes who are pushing the limits and creating unforgettable moments for fans of all ages. This tour is all about bringing them closer to the action and giving them an experience they won’t forget.”

Ryan ‘R Willy’ Williams added, “I’m extremely stoked that Nitro Circus is hitting the road again. This tour is all about bringing the same jaw-dropping action and non-stop excitement that fans have come to love, but with a brand-new show format that’s going to blow everyone away. What makes Nitro Circus so special is that it’s truly a show for everyone - whether you're a die-hard fan or it's your first time, young or old, the energy is contagious and the thrills are unforgettable. I can’t wait to see families and fans of all ages out there, making memories and having an absolute blast with us!"

Stephen Shaw, Founder and Co-President of Round Room Live, wrapped it up by saying, “We are beyond thrilled to bring a brand-new Nitro Circus tour to fans across the country! We’ve been blown away by the enthusiasm and passion we’ve seen from Nitro fans of all ages, and know this new show will surpass their expectations with explosive stunts, energy, and fun.”

Mark your calendars - Nitro Circus is coming back to America, and it’s set to be an unforgettable ride.

For more information and schedule updates, visit NitroCircus.com

UPCOMING NITRO CIRCUS 2024 DATES**:
Sunday, Nov. 3 – Alliant Energy PowerHouse – Cedar Rapids, IA
Wednesday, Nov. 6 – Denny Sanford Premier Center - Sioux Falls, SD
Thursday, Nov. 7 – Fargodome – Fargo, ND
Saturday, Nov. 9 – Cable Dahmer Arena - Independence, MO
Sunday, Nov. 10 – BMO Center – Rockford, IL
Tuesday, Nov. 12 – Dow Event Center – Saginaw, MI
Wednesday, Nov. 13 – Erie Insurance Arena – Erie, PA
Friday, Nov. 15 – Cross Insurance Center – Bangor, ME
Saturday, Nov. 16 – Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum - Uniondale, NY
Sunday, Nov. 17 – PPL Center – Allentown, PA
Tuesday, Nov. 19 – Mohegan Sun Arena – Wilkes Barre Township, PA
Wednesday, Nov. 20 – Amica Mutual Pavillion - Providence, RI
Friday, Nov. 22 – XL Center - Hartford, CT
Saturday, Nov. 23 – Cross Insurance Arena – Portland, ME
Sunday, Nov. 24 – CURE Insurance Arena – Trenton, NJ
Tuesday, Nov. 26 – Covelli Centre – Youngstown, OH
Wednesday, Nov. 27 – MVP Arena – Albany, NY
Friday, Nov. 29 – KFC Yum! Center – Louisville, KY
Saturday, Nov. 30 – Peoria Civic Center – Peoria, IL
Sunday, Dec. 1 – Fishers Event Center – Fishers, IN
Tuesday, Dec. 3 – Huntington Center – Toledo, OH
Wednesday, Dec. 4 – Truist Arena - Highland Heights, KY
Thursday, Dec. 5 – Nationwide Arena – Columbus, OH
Saturday, Dec. 7 – Cadence Bank Arena – Tupelo, MS
Tuesday, Dec. 10 - Donald L. Tucker Civic Center - Tallahassee, FL
Thursday, Dec. 12 – Mississippi Coast Coliseum – Biloxi, MS
Saturday, Dec. 14 - Bojangles Coliseum – Charlotte, NC
Sunday, Dec. 15 – Greensboro Coliseum - Greensboro, NC
Monday, Dec. 16 – Enmarket Arena – Savannah, GA

*Nitro Circus Athletes subject to change.
**Additional dates and cities will be announced soon.

What Drift Events Can Learn From Final Bout

2024-09-03T16:54:54+00:00

In the ever-exciting world of drifting, where the focus often drifts (pun intended) towards the glitz and glamor of high-budget competitions, Final Bout serves as a refreshing reminder of what the sport is truly about. For 10 years, this series has been the benchmark for grassroots drifting, drawing in teams and enthusiasts from across the United States and beyond, growing bigger and better each year. Final Bout 7 just took place, and as we reflect on its success, it becomes clear that Final Bout is more than just an annual drift event - it's a movement that presents the blueprint for a culturally significant drift event, and immitating it would be nearly impossible.

Photography by Kylee Hilton (@kyqxinn) and Mack Katzel (@mack.mac_).

Keep It Grassroots

Final Bout’s biggest lesson is its dedication to the grassroots ethos. In an age where drifting is often associated with big budgets and corporate sponsors, Final Bout stands out by celebrating the raw, unfiltered essence of the sport. This is drifting in its purest form - where the focus is on style, community, and passion rather than prize money or commercial appeal. While some teams or individuals certainly have money to spend, it's a far cry from factory-backed multi-million dollar campaigns in competitive motorsport. The spirit of drifting as it existed in the early 2000s (when most of us fell in love with it) is still alive and well.

Team Spirit Over Individual Glory

While many drift competitions only spotlight individual performances, Final Bout thrives on the energy of teams. Drift teams from all corners of the globe converge to compete, share their unique styles, and hang out. This team-based approach fosters a sense of community and encourages an extra level of creativity, pushing teams to present their cars - on and off the track - in a way that’s cohesive and visually striking. Emphasizing team dynamics elevates the overall experience, making events feel more like a gathering of like-minded enthusiasts rather than just another competition. On the final day of Final Bout, each of the top 8 teams choose one member to represent them in 1v1 battles, adding a little bit of spice to the individual battles.

Style is Substance

At Final Bout, car style isn’t just an afterthought - it’s a requirement. The event has become synonymous with high standards in car aesthetics, proving that how a car looks is just as important as how it performs. This emphasis on style sets the tone for the entire event, creating a visually appealing and exciting atmosphere that resonates with attendees and media alike. This mandatory style element encourages drivers to think beyond the simple mechanical, and step into the realm of artistry. The night drifting portion of the event adds all the more reason to use light for added style.

Build a Community, Not Just a Fanbase

Final Bout isn’t just another event; it’s a gathering. The atmosphere is less about competition and more about coming together to celebrate a shared passion. This community-driven approach is evident in the pre-event meets and street hangouts that have become a hallmark of Final Bout. It’s a place where respect and camaraderie are paramount, where new friendships are often found, and where the love for drifting is the unifying factor. Other drift events can benefit from fostering a similar community spirit, creating spaces where drivers and fans alike can connect on a deeper level.

Embrace the Media, But Stay Authentic

Final Bout has garnered a massive following not just because of the event itself, but also due to the stunning media that comes from it. However, what sets Final Bout apart is how it manages to stay authentic even as it embraces media attention. The event’s media presence is a natural extension of its core values - style, community, and passion. The key takeaway is to let the media amplify the event’s authentic qualities rather than shaping the event to fit a media narrative.

Final Bout has set the standard for what a grassroots drift event can and should be. It’s a celebration of the sport’s roots, a showcase of style, and a gathering of a tight-knit community. As other drift events look to the future, there’s much to be learned from Final Bout’s decade-long success. By staying true to the core values of drifting - style, teamwork, community, and authenticity - Final Bout’s success also contributes to the ongoing evolution of the sport. Here's to another 10 years of Final Bout.