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Ultimate Drift Brazil Becomes Official Affiliate Of Formula Drift To Enhance Drifting In The Country
The 2025 Ultimate Drift Championship is set to begin at the Belo Horizonte track on March 22-23. This event marks a significant collaboration between Formula DRIFT and Ultimate Drift, with the latter becoming an official affiliate. Established in 2020, Ultimate Drift aims to enhance drifting in Brazil by promoting fair and transparent competition. The partnership is expected to elevate the sport's profile within the country.
In 2024, Ultimate Drift hosted Brazil's largest championship, showcasing over 70 drivers across two divisions. However, for 2025, the competition will be streamlined into a single division with a cap of 50 top drivers. This change is intended to help fans and teams focus more on the competition and get familiar with the drivers. It also aims to strengthen regional championships that can qualify for the 2026 series.
The upcoming season will feature five rounds instead of seven, helping teams manage costs due to Brazil's vast geography. The schedule includes races in Belo Horizonte, Londrina, Balneario Camboriu, Ribeirao Preto, and Piracicaba. Belo Horizonte's Mega Space track is known for its natural topography, while Londrina boasts Brazil’s only banked oval track.
Joao Barion, founder of Ultimate Drift and a competitor in Formula DRIFT PRO Championship, noted the growth in driver skills and car quality over recent years. He stated, "I believe we are still a new championship in the process of growth and learning." Barion also highlighted the importance of simulator training for younger drivers as a key factor in this development.
The technical rules for Ultimate Drift largely mirror those of Formula DRIFT but with some differences. For instance, five judges are used instead of three, and there are specific tire regulations. Tires must be radial with a treadwear rating of at least 250 and a minimum hardness rating of 60. Cars are divided into two weight classes affecting tire width allowances.
Barion emphasized that one challenge is educating fans about the sport's complexities. He said continuity with Formula DRIFT's rulebook could aid understanding among spectators. Attendance varies between 5,000-10,000 per round depending on location as fans continue to learn about drifting.
Future Aspirations for Brazilian Drifters
A long-term goal for Ultimate Drift is to create pathways for Brazilian drivers to earn a Formula DRIFT Competition License in the United States. This initiative aims to bolster the series' strength by developing local talent capable of competing internationally.
Ryan Sage, President of Formula DRIFT, expressed enthusiasm about this new affiliation: "We’re very excited to add another Formula DRIFT Affiliate... Joao and his crew have created an extremely professional team... We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship together."
About Ultimate Drift
Ultimate Drift was founded in 2020 with aspirations inspired by Formula DRIFT. The organization seeks to make drifting more competitive and professional in Brazil while introducing innovative elements to motorsports entertainment.
The first round of Formula DRIFT’s 2025 season will take place on April 4-5 on Long Beach streets. For more details on tickets or events visit formulad.com.
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