Formula DRIFT USA and Ultimate Drift USA have agreed that the Brazilian organization should operate as a Formula DRIFT Affiliate. Established in 2020, Ultimate Drift aims to promote drifting in Brazil and improve competition through a fair organizational structure.
In 2024, Ultimate Drift hosted Brazil’s largest drifting championship. Joao Barion, series founder and competitor in the Formula DRIFT PRO Championship, stated, “We are still a young championship in growth and learning, with increasing car and driver skill levels, especially through simulator training.”
Attendance at events ranges from 5,000 to 10,000, with the challenge of helping fans understand the sport. Barion hopes that aligning with the Formula DRIFT Official Rulebook will assist in this effort. The 2025 season will feature one division limited to 50 drivers, allowing deeper fan and team engagement and supporting smaller regional championships.
The 2025 Ultimate Drift Championship will consist of five rounds, reduced from seven, to help teams manage budgets effectively. Premier tracks include Belo Horizonte (Mega Space), known for its natural topography, and Londrina’s only banked oval track.
Ultimate Drift regulations are largely based on Formula DRIFT’s, but with some variations, like five judges and specific tire requirements. Cars in two weight classes will have differing tire width provisions.
Ryan Sage, President of Formula DRIFT, expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Joao Barion, praising the professionalism of his team and their commitment to advancing the sport in Brazil.
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