Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Kenda Tire Unveils Expanded Driver Roster And Three-Year Commitment To Formula DRIFT For 2025 Season
Kenda Tire is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season after securing third place in the 2024 Formula DRIFT Tire Cup. The company has renewed its commitment to the series by signing a three-year contract extension with Formula DRIFT. This move underscores Kenda's dedication to supporting teams, drivers, and fans in the drifting community.
In preparation for the upcoming season, Kenda Motorsports has expanded its driver roster. Notable additions include Fredric Aasbo, a three-time Formula DRIFT PRO Champion from Norway, and his Papadakis Racing teammate Ryan Tuerck. Simen Olsen, also from Norway, joins as a title contender alongside Daniel Stuke and Austin Matta from the USA.
The new recruits will join returning Kenda Motorsports drivers like Ken Gushi from Japan and Jhonnattan Castro from the Dominican Republic. Other returning stars include Nick Noback, Jonathan Hurst, and Derek Madison from the USA. This formidable lineup aims to make a significant impact in the 2025 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship.
All drivers will compete using Kenda's latest VEZDA UHP MAX+ tires, primarily in the 305/35 ZR18 size. These tires replace the previous VEZDA UHP MAX model used during the 2023/24 seasons. The MAX+ tires are designed to offer premium performance at an affordable price point.
Kenda Tire's involvement in open competition allows it to showcase its "Podium2Pavement" philosophy. This approach highlights how their tire technology can excel both on public roads and in competitive environments like Formula DRIFT. The company's focus on DOT-approved tires ensures that their products meet high standards for both street and track use.
Brandon Stotsenburg, Vice President of Kenda's Automotive Division, expressed enthusiasm about their partnership with Kenda Motorsports teams for 2025. He stated, "We believe that competing on Kenda tires gives these drivers an incredible opportunity to build on their legacy." Stotsenburg emphasized that their products are designed for both street cruising and track racing success.
Formula DRIFT's Perspective
Ryan Sage, President of Formula DRIFT, shared his excitement about Kenda Tires' continued commitment to drifting. He remarked on the impressive driver roster and the potential of the new MAX+ tires: "The combination of a tire company that has fully embraced drift... should result in podiums and genuine title challenges this year."
The 2025 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship will commence on April 4-5 at Long Beach Streets. Meanwhile, Round 1 of the Link ECU PROSPEC Championship is scheduled for May 8-10 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta alongside FD PRO Round 2.
About Kenda Tire
Kenda Tire was established in 1962 and has become a global leader in tire manufacturing across various industries such as automotive, bicycle, motorcycle, ATV, RV, industrial sectors, among others. With over 12,000 employees worldwide, Kenda prides itself on quality and innovation.
About Formula DRIFT
Formula DRIFT is renowned as an international drifting championship that tests drivers' skills while demanding high performance from vehicles. Originating in Japan but now globalized through North America’s first official series; it attracts fans worldwide who enjoy extreme motorsport competitions.
The series offers professional drifters worldwide opportunities to compete for coveted titles while engaging car enthusiasts globally through events streamed online via platforms like YouTube or MAV TV (check local providers).
Continue with Google