AMA AND OTHER SERIESNEWS AND NOTES

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    american  flat trackFORMULA DRIFT 

American FLAT TRACK

www.americanflattrack.com

Progressive American Flat Track is the world's premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. Progressive American Flat Track is televised on FOX Sports and streams live via FloRacing. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track,

 

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 10, 2026) - AMA Pro Racing announced today that Whelen Engineering will continue to enhance safety at flat track nationals through its world-class Super-LED® lighting products. The partnership renewal continues a key multi-year relationship naming Whelen as the Official Warning Lights of Progressive American Flat Track.

 

Whelen’s industry-leading lighting technology featuring powerful, high-visibility Super-LED® solutions engineered for the most demanding environments and mission-critical applications will be utilized across all Progressive AFT events. These systems support race operations, improve visibility for competitors and officials, and play a critical role in clear communication between race control and riders. They enable faster, more efficient responses to on-track incidents and changing track conditions, providing a critical safety enhancement for riders, crews, and officials.

 

"We’re proud to continue our partnership with Progressive American Flat Track and support a series that demands the highest level of performance and precision,” said Peter Tiezzi III, General Manager of Motorsports at Whelen Engineering. “Our Super-LED® lighting systems are built for high-pressure environments, and we’re honored to help enhance visibility and communication for riders, teams, and officials throughout the season."

 

The continued partnership reflects Progressive AFT’s commitment to delivering professional, well-managed race events. Whelen’s proven, high-performance warning and safety lighting technology helps make that commitment a reality every race weekend.

 

“Whelen’s long history of innovation and dedication to enhancing safety for first responders and in motorsports makes them the perfect partner for our series,” said Gene Crouch, CEO of AMA Pro Racing. “We are proud to continue this relationship and thank Whelen for their dedication to supporting first responders nationwide, as well as their ongoing contribution to enhancing safety at every round of the Progressive American Flat Track national championship.”

 

Founded in 1952 by George W. Whelen in his garage in Deep River, Connecticut, Whelen Engineering designs, manufactures, and assembles all of its industry-leading products in the United States. Globally recognized for its innovative Super-LED® warning and illumination systems across automotive, aviation, industrial, public safety, and motorsports sectors, including as the Official Warning Lights of NASCAR, Whelen maintains a strong reputation for products that deliver when it counts the most.

 

For more information about Whelen Engineering and its full line of safety lighting solutions, visit https://www.whelen.com.

 

Next Up

Progressive American Flat Track heads to California for two rounds of flat track racing. First up, Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track at Ventura Raceway on April 25. The following week, the series will be in Chico, CA for the Silver Dollar Short Track on May 2.

 

For tickets to the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track on April 25, visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-ventura-short-track-168769.

 

For tickets to the Silver Dollar Short Track on May 2, visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-silver-dollar-short-track-168776.

 

For more event and series information, visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

 

How to Watch

 

FloRacing
For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/AFT2026 or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

 

 

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 7, 2026) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is pleased to announce the renewal of its long-standing partnership with Caterpillar through the Cat RentalsSM brand, which will serve as the Official Heavy Equipment Provider of American Flat Track for the 2026 season.

 

Building upon a collaboration that began in 2019, Cat Rentals will remain a pillar to operational success of America’s Original Extreme Sport. With a global independent dealer network, local expertise and a comprehensive fleet of earth-moving machinery, aerial lifts and power generation solutions, Cat Rentals helps ensure that every venue on the circuit meets the rigorous standards required for professional flat track racing.

 

The 2026 season will also feature a continued brand presence for Cat Rentals at events across the country. Local dealers will use the Progressive AFT platform to engage with customers through exclusive hospitality programs and behind-the-scenes experiences, demonstrating the durability and efficiency of Cat® equipment in a high-pressure, professional environment.

 

“Progressive AFT sets the stage for some of the most dynamic racing in the country, and we’re proud to help make each event possible,” said Tom Caldwell, Vice President – Rental at Caterpillar. “Cat Rentals equipment plays a key role in preparing and maintaining the venues throughout the season, and we’re thrilled to extend our partnership as we debut our refreshed Cat Rentals brand.”

 

For more information on Cat Rentals and its global independent dealer network, visit CatRentals.com.

 

Next Up
Progressive American Flat Track takes a trip to the West Coast for the Ventura Short Track at Ventura Raceway on April 25.

 

For tickets to the Ventura Short Track, visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-ventura-short-track-168769.

 

For more event and series information, visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

 

How to Watch

 

FloRacing

For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/AFT2026 or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

 

FS1
FOX Sports will provide in-depth coverage of select Progressive American Flat Track events, featuring rider features and onboard cameras. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding premiere airdates on FS1 and re-airs on FS2. The full listing of American Flat Track’s television premieres will be posted to https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports.

 

 

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 7, 2026) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, has named Brad Sweet as Grand Marshal of the Silver Dollar Short Track at Silver Dollar Speedway in Chico, California, on May 2, 2026.

 

A Grass Valley, California native, Sweet won five consecutive World of Outlaws championships from 2019 to 2023 and ranks among the series’ all-time winningest drivers. His resume includes victories in marquee events such as the Knoxville Nationals and multiple Kings Royal wins.

 

Sweet is also the co-founder of High Limit Racing, where he claimed the series championship in 2024 before stepping away from full-time competition following the 2025 season.

 

The event carries added significance as Sweet is a co-owner of Silver Dollar Speedway alongside Kyle Larson and Colby Copeland. He will take part in pre-race ceremonies as Progressive American Flat Track returns to one of the West Coast’s premier dirt track venues.

 

Fans will also be treated to high-flying action from the Trashed Kids FMX stunt show, along with bar-banging racing from the Mission AFT SuperTwins class. Reigning KICKER AFT Singles winner and Northern California native Kage Tadman is set to return in search of a repeat victory.

 

Fans can purchase tickets now at https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-silver-dollar-short-track-168776 and experience the excitement of Progressive American Flat Track in Chico, California.

 

Next Up
Progressive American Flat Track begins the California swing with the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track at Ventura Raceway on April 25.

 

For tickets to the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track, visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-ventura-short-track-168769.

 

For more event and series information, visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

 

How to Watch

 

FloRacing
For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/AFT2026 or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

 

FS1
FOX Sports will provide in-depth coverage of select Progressive American Flat Track events, featuring rider features and onboard cameras. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding premiere airdates on FS1 and re-airs on FS2. The full listing of American Flat Track’s television premieres will be posted to https://www.americanflattrack.com/events-foxsports.

 

 

Tim Lester

 

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (March 31, 2026) — Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, today announced Memphis Shades as the entitlement sponsor of the Ventura Short Track on April 25 and the presenting sponsor of Nashville Short Track on June 6.

 

The Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track brings flat track to Ventura Raceway on April 25, delivering the world’s best motorcycle riders to the ocean front property. The Nashville Short Track presented by Memphis Shades will take the series to Sons of Speed Nashville Short Track on June 6, bringing bar-to-bar racing to one of the series’ most vibrant markets.

 

“Memphis Shades is excited to be part of American Flat Track. From supporting riders to being trackside, we believe in the impact racing has on the motorcycle community,” said Hillary Combest, Director of Sales and Marketing. “We’re proud to return as a sponsor of the Ventura Short Track and to be part of the Nashville Short Track in our home state of Tennessee this summer. We’re looking forward to both events and continuing to support the sport and its riders.”

 

Memphis Shades is known for its American-made motorcycle windshields and fairings, with a reputation built on quality craftsmanship and rider-focused design. Its continued investment in Progressive American Flat Track reflects a shared commitment to performance and the motorcycling community.

 

For more information about Memphis Shades, visit https://memphisshades.com/aft.

 

Next Up

 

The 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season continues with the Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track at Ventura Raceway on April 25.

 

For tickets to Memphis Shades Ventura Short Track, visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-ventura-short-track-168769.

 

For more event and series information, visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

 

How to Watch

 

FloRacing
For those that can’t catch the live action at the track, FloRacing is the live streaming home of Progressive American Flat Track. Motorsports fans can subscribe to FloRacing to enjoy over 1,000 live motorsports events in 2026. FloSports is available by visiting https://flosports.link/AFT2026 or by downloading the FloSports app on iOS, Android, Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire and Chromecast.

 

FS1
FOX Sports will provide in-depth coverage of select Progressive American Flat Track events, featuring rider features and onboard cameras. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements regarding premiere airdates on FS1 and re-airs on FS2. The full listing of American Flat

 

 Formula DRIFT

www.formulad.com

Formula DRIFT (also known as Formula D or FD) is a United States-based motorsport drifting series. Formula DRIFT was co-founded by Jim Liaw and Ryan Sage in 2003 as a sister company to Slipstream Global Marketing, the same partnership that introduced D1 Grand Prix to the United States. The new entity would solely own, operate and launch the first official drifting series in North America. Formula DRIFT is not associated with the FIA series of formula racing championships

 

2026 FORMULA DRIFT PRO CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITION RESULTS FROM ROUND 1 IN LONG BEACH

 

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026

Location: Streets of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 

Event: Competition Results from Formula DRIFT PRO Championship Round 1

 

RESULTS FROM FD PRO ROUND 1

  1. Conor Shanahan (Ireland) – Red Bull / GT Radial / JYR Toyota GT86
  2. Fredric Aasbo (Norway) – Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra
  3. Jack Shanahan (Ireland) – Pulsar Turbos E82 BMW

 

NOTES

  • Following the introduction of semi-automated judging during qualifying, the UDSM (Universal Drift Scoring Method) telemetry and data system from Race Data Labs was used in a supporting role during Top 32 Competition. It was enlisted to help the judges understand the vehicle dynamics and some nuance of individual runs where a collision or other incidents might have been a factor in the outcome
  • In addition to providing more data to assist the judges, it also helped accelerate the judging process, ensuring the fans enjoyed more action and less deliberation
  • After careful consideration of all the information, Conor Shanahan was awarded the Round 1 win in a very close Final against three-time FD PRO Champion Aasbo
  • Coming at the start of his third season in FD, this was the Irishman’s second win, and was achieved at the wheel of a new car – the Red Bull / GT Radial / JYR Toyota GT86 – built by his new team: Jerry Yang Racing
  • Conor’s win was more remarkable because it appeared he’d been knocked out of his Top 32 heat against Ken Gushi (Japan). Although the driver of the Toyota Gazoo Racing / GReddy Performance / Kenda Tire Toyota GR86 was deemed at fault for the collision, Shanahan’s team was unable to repair the car in time and would be eliminated. However, the judges decided to call One More Time, allowing the runs to be repeated. Shanahan then emerged the winner and proceeded to the Final
  • Aasbo had a clean weekend, dominated his opponents, stayed out of trouble and kept the new Rockstar livery intact
  • Conor’s brother Jack placed third after engine problems robbed the fans of his Top 4 run against Aasbo. Shanahan had gallantly chosen not to risk covering the track in oil by trying to defeat the Norwegian. His withdrawal also meant fans missed the chance to potentially see the Shanahan brothers battle in the Final if he’d been able to defeat Aasbo
  • One name missing from the podium was another Irishman; five-time Champion James Deane, who was favored to win this weekend after qualifying first. However, the driver of the O'Reilly / Pennzoil Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD lost his Top 16 heat against Diego Higa (Brazil)
  • Following a year away from Formula DRIFT, the Brazilian returned to competition in the Higa Motorsport Toyota GT86 and looked strong all weekend until he lost to Conor Shanahan in the Top 8
  • There were great expectations for Matt Field (USA) following his second-place performance in 2025, but he fell to Dylan Hughes (USA) in the Top 32
  • Similarly, LZ (USA) – who finished 2025 in third – was ejected from the Top 32 by Ryan Litteral (USA) after LZ made contact with two walls during his lead run in their One More Time battle
  • Top Rookie in Long Beach was Cole Richards (USA). His placed fourth overall after losing to Conor Shanahan in the Top 4 heats. The driver of the Richards Racing Toyota GT86 narrowly avoided a big collision on their first run and was unable to overcome the error. Despite that, he must now be regarded as a major force in 2026
  • Following the Opening Round, Toyota leads the Formula DRIFT 2026 Auto Cup by a considerable margin, while Kenda leads the Tire Cup by a solitary point

 

ROUND 1 FD PRO TOP 16 DRIVER POINTS & CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS*

POSITION

DRIVER

POINTS

1

Conor Shanahan

50

2

Fredric Aasbo

40

3

Jack Shanahan

32

4

Cole Richards

30

5

Aurimas Bakchis

20

6

Branden Sorensen

20

7

Diego Higa

20

8

Dylan Hughes

20

9

James Deane

13

10

Chris Forsberg

11

11

Ryan Tuerck

10

12

Hiroya Minowa

10

13

Ben Hobson

10

14

Simen Olsen

10

15

Jeff Jones

10

16

Ryan Litteral

10

 

 

2026 AUTO CUP TOP 5 STANDINGS*

Toyota

60

BMW

32

Ford

23

Nissan

21

Chevrolet

0

 

2026 TIRE CUP STANDINGS*

Kenda

51

GT Radial

50

Kumho

42

Nitto

23

 

* Preliminary standings. Final results pending official confirmation

 

FORMULA DRIFT LONG BEACH RECAP

A recap of all the action from FD LB with event images will be available on Monday.

 

NEXT ROUND

Round 2 of the Formula DRIFT PRO Championship will take place at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta on May 7-9. It will be accompanied by the Opening Round of the Link ECU PROSPEC Championship and will also see the return of the GridLife series during the same weekend. Please visit formulad.com for ticket information, driver profiles, special content, and the event livestream.

FORMULA DRIFT PRO CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFYING RESULTS FROM ROUND 1 IN LONG BEACH 

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Friday, April 10, 2026

Location: Streets of Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 

Event: Qualification for Formula DRIFT PRO Championship Round 1

 

RESULTS FROM FD PRO QUALIFYING

  1. James Deane (Ireland) – O'Reilly / Pennzoil Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD
  2. Jack Shanahan (Ireland) – Pulsar Turbos E82 BMW
  3. Chris Forsberg (USA) – Destined Industries Nissan Z

 

PRO NOTES

·      For the 2026 season, the Formula DRIFT PRO Championship is returning to solo qualifying runs following a vote by the drivers. Each driver gets two runs to set their best score

·      It’s worth noting that the PROSPEC Championship drivers voted to retain tandem Seeding Bracket qualification runs this season

·      The running order for Qualifying is decided by the reverse of the Championship ranking. For Round One, the Rookie drivers went first with the 2025 Champion running last. For subsequent rounds, the order will be the reverse of the 2026 Championship standings

·      To avoid solo qualifying runs creating any scheduling issues if they ran long on combined Championship weekends, Formula DRIFT decided to collaborate with Race Data Labs on its UDSM (Universal Drift Scoring Method) system. The telemetry and data system is able to automate the objective aspects of scoring individual qualifying runs to help control the scheduling

·      As a result, approximately 80% of a PRO driver’s Qualifying score will be automated. The drivers’ drift Line and car Angle will be quantified and scored entirely by the UDSM system, helping to speed up the judging process. Driving Style – the remaining 20% of the overall score – is subject to nuance and requires human reasoning to apply categories not measured by UDSM, such as transition snap and stability, use of e-brake and left-foot braking, degree of difficulty and the aggregate effect. Subsequently, Style continues to be assessed and awarded by the existing panel of three Formula DRIFT judges

·      The RDL systems will be incorporated into all competition cars for the entire weekend and will provide the same physical data to the judges to reference during competition. It will be able to objectively measure the proximity between vehicles, comparative angle between drivers, and comparative speed

·      UDSM will also provide a reliable deceleration pattern, which will build on the existing Formula DRIFT “Decel Lights” to detect deceleration and identify when deceleration has met a visual threshold. And in the case of collisions, it can provide data to help reveal which driver was at fault

·      The system will also detect whether a driver puts one, two, three or even four tires off the prescribed course, making the scrutiny required to assess precise position far simpler

·      During Qualification, USDM is able to transmit data to the FD production truck, which then applies graphics both live and in replay. This makes the data accessible to new and veteran fans alike, helping them gain a better insight

·      With 33 drivers attempting to qualify for the Top 32 Competition places, one would be eliminated, and unfortunately the axe fell on Rome Charpentier (USA) in the Garagistic / Pedal Commander /  Coco Love / Kumho Tire /  E36 BMW. He was unable to complete his first run and only scored  after he only scored 48.3 points on his second

·      The top qualifier was the reigning and five-time FD PRO Champion James Deane with a score of 89 points. As the top ranked driver from 2025, he ran last and claimed the lead on the final run of the session, bringing proceeding to a dramatic climax

·      Second place went to fellow Irishman Shanahan in a BMW he built in 16 days and wasn’t sure it would even be ready in time. However, he scored 88.46 points on his second run to secure the position

·      Third place went to Forsberg who showed the skills of a three-time Champion, possibly inspired by his new livery on his Nissan Z

·      In fourth was Ryan Tuerck (USA) in the Rain-X Toyota GR Corolla. Not only was he celebrating his birthday, but Ryan also announced he’d be leaving the series at the end of the year and promised to push to the end

·      Throughout the first run session, the lead was held by Deane’s teammate at RTR Motorsports, Ben Hobson (USA) who scored a dominant 86.26 points on his first run. However, a spin on his second outing meant he couldn’t improve and placed seventh overall

·      The leading Rookie was Cole Richards (USA) driving the Richards Racing Toyota GT86. He scored 83.46 points, placing him seventh overall. He was one of the three leading PROSPEC drivers to graduate into the PRO Championship and is expected to battle hard for the 2026 Rookie of the Year award with the 2025 PROSPEC Champion Cody Buchanan (USA) and Nate Chen (USA)

·      The top qualifier receives three Championship point, while second place receives two, and third gets one point

 

FD PRO ROUND 1 TOP 16 QUALIFYING RESULTS*

POSITION

NAME

POINTS

1

James Deane

3

2

Jack Shanahan

2

3

Chris Forsberg

1

4

Ryan Tuerck

0

5

Adam LZ

0

6

Hiroya Minowa

0

7

Ben Hobson

0

8

Conor Shanahan

0

9

Simen Olsen

0

10

Aurimas Bakchis

0

11

Fredric Aasbo

0

12

Cole Richards

0

13

Branden Sorensen

0

14

Matt Field

0

15

Jeff Jones

0

16

Dan Burkett

0

 

TOP 32 COMPETITION BRACKET FOR ROUND 1

FD2026_PRO_Round1_Top32Bracket-Updated.jpg

* Preliminary standings. Final results pending official confirmation

 

FORMULA DRIFT LONG BEACH RECAP

Competition results from FD PRO Round 1 will be sent on Saturday. A recap of all the action from FD LB with event images will be available on Monday.

 

NEXT ROUND

Round 2 of the Formula DRIFT PRO Championship will take place at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta on May 7-9. It will be accompanied by the Opening Round of the Link ECU PROSPEC Championship and will also see the return of the GridLife series during the same weekend. Please visit formulad.com for ticket information, driver profiles, special content, and the event livestream.

 

 

TEAM ENEOS REVEALS 2026 DRIVER LINEUP FOR FORMULA DRIFT, PIKES PEAK & MORE

 

 

ENEOS Motor Oil is announcing the drivers and ambassadors who will lead the brand through another action-packed motorsports season for the Japanese company, which is the supplier of motor oil and transmission fluids to the majority of Asian vehicle manufacturers. 

As the ultimate proving ground for high-performance lubricants, ENEOS will support two teams in both the 2026 Formula DRIFT PRO and PROSPEC championships. Additionally, ENEOS is the Official Oil Sponsor of the 2026 Link ECU PROSPEC championship for the first time in its nine-year association with the world’s leading competitive drift series. The brand is also heading back to Pikes Peak with long term partners Evasive Motorsports, who are looking for another victory at the Race to the Clouds.

 

FREDRIC AASBO & PAPADAKIS RACING

This season will mark the sixth year of a very successful partnership between ENEOS and Fredric Aasbo at Papadakis Racing. As a three-time Formula DRIFT PRO Champion, the Norwegian is among the most successful drivers in series history. As a consistent round winner and podium placer, Fredric regularly proves ENEOS lubricants are among the best in the world, providing superior protection under the harshest conditions, helping to ensure outstanding reliability for the team. 

Claiming FD PRO Championship titles in 2015, 2021 and 2022, Fredric joined a small club of elite drivers with three titles. And while he’s faced fierce competition in recent seasons, Aasbo remains determined to wrestle the 2026 title from the opposition.

Backed by Papadakis Racing, the driver of the Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra will continue to be lubricated by ENEOS engine and gear oils, and Fredric will once again face the world’s best at this weekend’s opening round in Long Beach, CA.

 

STEPHAN PAPADAKIS

Veteran racer, Formula DRIFT team owner/manager at Papadakis Racing, and skilled engineer, Stephan Papadakis is a motorsports legend. He established an unbeatable reputation in Import Drag Racing, building the first front-wheel-drive, tube-chassis Honda Civic drag car. He then set records with the world’s fastest FWD and RWD Hondas, the first Import driver to break the 6sec barrier and the first to exceed 180mph. Stephan was the 1999 SEMA Import Racer of the Year, 2000 NIRA Pro Comp Champion, 2001 NIRA Pro FWD Champion and IDRC Outlaw Class Champion.

Papadakis Racing joined Formula DRIFT in 2004, winning the PRO Championship title in 2007 and 2008 with Tanner Foust, and then with Aasbo at the wheel of the 1200hp Toyota GR Supra. Papadakis-prepped vehicles continue to place in the top three throughout every season, and Stephan has been voted Formula DRIFT Team Manager of the Year countless times.

Stephan utilizes ENEOS lubricants in all his personal projects, including the 1972 Toyota Celica featured in the 2024 ENEOS SEMA Show booth and his 1995 Toyota MK4 Supra restoration, which made multiple appearances with ENEOS.

 

COLLETE DAVIS

One of the most diversified female drivers in the world, Collete’s combination of driving talent and on-screen personality makes her a standout in the automotive and motorsports worlds. A first-generation racer known for her aggressive approach to driving, Collete has drifted internationally in Europe, Brazil, Australia, Southeast Asia, Japan, and more, adapting to competition everywhere she goes. 

In North America, Collete earned her Formula DRIFT license after winning a drift shootout competition in 2024. Currently entering her second season in the PROSPEC championship, she secured two Great 8 finishes and a seeding qualification podium in 2025 – and is hoping for more in 2026!

With more than a decade in motorsports, Collete’s experience behind the wheel expands beyond drifting to rallycross, sports cars, stunt driving, and even monster trucks! She shares her journey with fans on the Collete Davis YouTube channel, documenting the creativity, chaos and engineering surrounding her adventures.

One of the newest additions to Team ENEOS in 2026, Collete will represent in the ENEOS-sponsored PROSPEC championship driving the Fitment Industries / Gtechniq / ENEOS E46 BMW 2JZ. 

 

JIMMY OAKES

Jimmy is an automotive media entrepreneur, digital content creator, and brand collaborator recognized for his influence on- and off-track within the performance and motorsports industry. As the founder and face of his highly engaging YouTube channel, Jimmy has built a global following through his unique storytelling approach centered on vehicle development, engineering know-how, and automotive lifestyle. 

With a strong foundation in hands-on experience and performance tuning, Jimmy has completed numerous large-scale vehicle builds, ranging from JDM restorations to advanced engine conversions. His work emphasizes technical precision, innovation, and accessibility, positioning his channel as a trusted resource for enthusiasts. Additionally, Jimmy is an active drifter, further strengthening his connection to Team ENEOS, the enthusiast community, and reinforcing his brand’s authenticity.

Through his channel, Jimmy has established long-term partnerships with leading automotive brands and aftermarket manufacturers. ENEOS is excited to have him onboard as one of our newest ambassadors, who will solidify his role on Team ENEOS as a key figure at the intersection of digital media and automotive performance culture. He will utilize ENEOS performance lubricants in his personal vehicles, including the upcoming Porsche 911SC project car, dubbed “Porarri” (Porsche + Ferrari), which it will be powered with a Ferrari F136 V8 motor.

 

EVASIVE MOTORSPORTS

Established in 2002 as a side hustle to sell aftermarket parts online, co-owners Mike Chang and Tony Kwan grew Evasive Motorsports into a 12000 sq-ft brick-and-mortar facility, where their Mitsubishi Evo time attack car helped to grab the spotlight. It allowed them to add race car preparation and parts installation to the list of services offered, supplementing their parts sales.

In 2021, Evasive moved to its current 18000 sq-ft facility in Cerritos, CA, adding more workshop space and parts storage. The expert staff continues to deliver premium on-site services including engine/chassis tuning, race prep, fabrication, dyno testing and regular servicing. The team has track-tested an extensive range of parts over the years and provides recommendations to customers who seek to improve their vehicle’s performance and balance.

As an authorized dealer, ENEOS high-performance lubricants go hand-in-hand with all Evasive racing projects. The high-performance ENEOS engine and transmission oils have been used in a number of record-breaking Evasive project vehicles driven at events including the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and Global Time Attack.

Evasive formed a new partnership with Hyundai in 2025 to build an ENEOS-supported race car and will return to Pikes Peak this year to showcase their racing prowess and EV knowledge on behalf of Team ENEOS.

 

FARUK KUGAY

Faruk has been a longtime member of Team ENEOS, using ENEOS motor and gear oils in several competition drift cars and a stable of high-level project cars he built for the Japanese company’s SEMA Show booth.

Faruk started drifting in 2002, organizing his own drift events in Europe from 2007 where he also announced, judged and even taught drifting to fellow enthusiasts. Returning to the California Bay Area in 2012, Faruk dedicated himself to professional competition, earning his Formula DRIFT PRO2 (PROSPEC) license in 2015 and unlocking his PRO license the following year. After completing the 2020 PRO season, Faruk took a sabbatical but returned to the PROSPEC Championship in 2023 with ENEOS Motor Oil and the “de-tuned” PROSPEC ENEOS / Pedal Commander Nissan S14. 

This year, Faruk will continue to host the “ENEOS On The Road” video series for ENEOS, visiting shops around the country who utilize ENEOS OE technology lubricants for customer cars. At the track, Faruk will compete in various grassroots drift events in the ENEOS / DEVSPEED Nissan S14, powered by a 900hp Toyota Supra 2JZ engine.

 

RICH WHITEMAN 

Rich continues to be a crucial member of Team ENEOS at a grassroots level, demonstrating the superior engine and transmission protection provided by ENEOS engine and gear oils in his SR20DET-powered Nissan Silvia S13. 

Rich competed in Formula DRIFT PROSPEC in 2021 and 2022, claiming several podiums in his Toyota JZX100, placing 11th and 12th overall, respectively. This season, he’ll be driving for Team ENEOS at multiple drift events, including GridLife, Final Bout, Drift Appalachia, Gambler and HyperFest. Rich is also working on a new FD competition car, with plans to return to PROSPEC in 2027.

Rich has already completed his first event of the season in his Nissan S13 at Drift Appalachia Touge Special Stage 8, which took place March 27-28.

 

OPENING ROUNDS

The opening round of the 2026 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship take place at Streets of Long Beach on April 10-11. Fredric will begin his title chase for Team ENEOS, who remains in the hunt for his fourth championship.

On May 7-9, Formula DRIFT heads to Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta for the Round 2 of the PRO championship and the opening round of PROSPEC, where Collete will make her Team ENEOS debut. Please visit formulad.com for the competition schedule and free-to-view event livestream.

Please visit eneos.us for more information about Team ENEOS, the latest engine and gear oils, as well as where to purchase. ENEOS Motor and Transmission Oils are available online at Amazon, NAPA and other retailers: eneos.us/where-to-buy.

 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Fans can follow Team ENEOS via the following links:

●      instagram.com/ENEOSUSA

●      instagram.com/fredricaasbo

●      instagram.com/stephpapadakis

●      instagram.com/colletedavis/

●      instagram.com/jimmyoakes/

●      instagram.com/evasivemotorsports

●      instagram.com/faruk.kugay

●      instagram.com/rich_whiteman_

 

 

 

MEGUIAR’S® & TJ HUNT REVEAL NEW FERRARI 488 GT3 EVO LIVERY AT FORMULA DRIFT THIS WEEKEND

 

After its unveiling to rapturous applause in the Meguiar’s booth at SEMA 2025, TJ Hunt will reveal his extraordinary Ferrari in a celebratory Meguiar's 125th Anniversary livery!

Irvine, CA. April 8, 2026. The original car care brand – Meguiar’s – will take its place in the paddock at the opening round of the 2026 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship this weekend on the Streets of Long Beach in Long Beach, CA.

Meguiar’s was a sponsor of the world’s premier drift series way back at its founding and returned in 2025 to renew the association, bringing its legendary car care products to a new audience during its 125th Anniversary year.

In addition to its team of car care experts on hand to answer questions on preserving the finishes on all cars, old and new, the Meguiar’s booth will feature YouTube star TJ Hunt’s incredible Ferrari 488 GT3 EVO, which was revealed to the world in the Meguiar’s booth at SEMA 2025.

What most people don’t know is that the red paint and the genuine Ferrari GT3 racing bodywork was intended to be wrapped in a unique livery for SEMA. However, after seeing the car fully assembled it was clear that the crimson paint was perfect for the SEMA stage. But five months later, TJ and Meguiar’s decided Formula DRIFT fans were the perfect audience to appreciate the very special livery created by legendary designer, Jon Sibal.

Fans in attendance at Round 1 on the Streets of Long Beach on April 10-11 will be able to see the 488 GT3 EVO in the flesh rather than the Sibal renderings we’ve provided here. What’s more, TJ will make an appearance in the Meguiar's booth on Saturday at 1-1:40PM to meet fans and hand out limited edition Leen pins featuring his Ferrari. There will also be some Meguiar’s giveaway items, so don’t forget to check out the booth in the paddock area.

 

EDITOR’S NOTE

Media wishing to review the latest Meguiar’s car care products, receive car care instruction, or participate in car care classes should please use the Media Contact below.

 

ABOUT MEGUIAR’S

With 125 years of experience and surface care leadership, Meguiar's remains deeply rooted in car culture, authentically pushing performance boundaries of detailing products to support all needs… from the experienced Pro to the curious novice. Meguiar’s, at its core, is undoubtedly about PASSION. Passion for developing the best possible surface care products, including Auto, Marine and RV. Passion for ensuring the experience using those products delivers a “WOW” - every time. And Passion for building and fostering genuine relationships with enthusiasts around the globe. Join the global community of people who genuinely love their cars and Reflect their Passion™ using Meguiar’s!

 

 

CANON JOINS FORMULA DRIFT AS OFFICIAL IMAGING PARTNER

 Two-year deal will see Canon integrated into live events, livestream broadcast and more.

 

Since its establishment in 1937, Canon has been at the forefront of optical, photographic, and imaging innovation for nearly nine decades. That technology will be on display throughout the 2026 Formula DRIFT season, which kicks off on the Streets of Long Beach on April 10-11.

As the "Official Imaging" partner of Formula DRIFT, Canon U.S.A., Inc. will be integrated into the livestream broadcasts. The latest broadcast-spec Canon CR-X300 Outdoor 4K PTZ (pan tilt zoom) camera and RC-IP100 PTZ controller will be employed at every round to share angles of the action at each track that have never been seen before by the online audience. The aim is to highlight the versatility and quality of the Canon camera by sharing it with the millions of fans who tune in from around the world to watch the streamed practice, qualifying and every competition heat.

Additionally, Canon will provide registered media with an onsite photo printing station, featuring the imagePROGRAF PRO-1100 printer. Leading series photographers such as “Canon Explorer of Light” Larry Chen and his team will be able to print their images throughout the competition weekend and share them with fans at each track. In addition, the Formula DRIFT team will be utilizing the Canon IX-R7000 ID Card & Badge Printer for on-site credentials. 

“Canon has always been driven by a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in optical technology. Partnering with Formula DRIFT as the Official Imaging Partner will allow us to bring that legacy of innovation to one of the most visually dynamic sports in the world,” said Kiyoshi Oka, executive vice president and general manager, marketing strategy unit at Canon, U.S.A., Inc. “From the first turn in Long Beach to the final heat of the season, our goal is to ensure that every plume of smoke and every high-speed transition is captured with uncompromising quality to showcase the versatility and power of the Canon ecosystem.”

Attendees who wish to learn more about the latest Canon products will be able to explore the company’s activation at four rounds throughout the season. This will include the Opening and Final Rounds in Long Beach, Round 2 at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta and Round 6 at Evergreen Speedway near Seattle.

“Our most iconic images over the past 20 years have been captured on Canon cameras, so to officially partner with such a legendary brand is an honor and testament to our legendary content creators such as Larry Chen. And now Canon has empowered Formula DRIFT to provide fans with unique images never seen before, special fan activations at select events, and new resources for media attendees. We could not be more thrilled to see where Canon takes the sport over the next two years!” said Bryan Olfert, Sales Director for Formula DRIFT. 

 

NEXT ROUND

The 2026 Formula DRIFT season will open April 10-11 on The Streets of Long Beach. For tickets, driver profiles, event schedules, and livestream access, please visit formulad.com.

 

 

FORMULA DRIFT SIGNS EXCLUSIVE BROADCAST DEAL WITH RACER NETWORK 

 A New Kind of Content Rights Deal For a New Era in Media

 

  

 

Long Beach, CA and Indianapolis, IN – March 31, 2026. Formula DRIFT and RACER, North America’s largest motorsports media platform, today announced the expansion of their relationship with a groundbreaking approach to media distribution that includes new live programming on RACER Network, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, channelization of FD coverage across the RACER digital suite, the addition of PROSPEC livestreaming, and a robust athlete incentive program. 

The multi-year agreement will see all Formula DRIFT live competitions, including PRO and PROSPEC Championship classes, available worldwide exclusively on RACER and FD platforms. Seeding, Qualifying and early round competition will be available for free on the RACER+ app and on RACER’s FAST channel, which reaches 400 million devices in North America, including Samsung, Roku, Amazon and more. 

As an added value to the fans, FD and RACER have collaborated on a new pre-race show tentatively called RACER GridWalk. It will feature intimate driver interviews live from the Hot Pit during final practice before Top 32 Competition. This programming will kick off the cable TV broadcasts on RACER Network and be live on the RACER+ app, as well as via the RACER+ player on the FD website*. The highlight of each FD weekend, the PRO Championship Top 16 Competition heats, will be available free exclusively on RACER Network – which reaches more than 25 million households – on the RACER+ App, and via the RACER+ player on the FD website*.

“This is the first time the popular live stream from FD has done a deal of this kind,” said Ryan Sage, President of Formula DRIFT. “We’ve constructed a unique and monumental deal with RACER; Not only can we leverage our existing audience to show the value of our product, but RACER is adding a massive layer of distribution and support on top of our efforts. So, it’s only fitting that we harness our collective power and efforts to bring the Top 16 to RACER Network properties, exclusively, for the first time.”

Sage continued, “RACER is showing its serious commitment by investing in a brand-new live show, which will feature a never-before-seen, guerilla-style grid walk as we kick off the main day of Competition and the Top 32 heats. I personally believe this show, featuring new host Greg Bucell, will be one of the more popular broadcasts we do. That, along with a complete rights deal for PROSPEC, new financial incentives for drivers, exclusive content, and channelization of FD on RACER will elevate our sport to the proverbial front cover and illustrates the commitment and level of enthusiasm RACER has taken in its all-in approach to FD.”

CJ Olivares, Group CEO at RACER, added, “This is the natural evolution of our partnership. Over the last three years, we’ve collaborated to expand awareness and attract a younger audience to our platform. FD’s push to explore alternative distribution strategies while broadly innovating its coverage and racing format align perfectly with our values to focus on fans and create on-ramps for new racing- and car-curious viewers. By increasing our commitment and coverage of Formula DRIFT to the top tier of domestic motorsports, we’re recognizing the importance and influence it has across the racing landscape to reach, engage and inspire.”

The 2026 Formula DRIFT season kicks off on April 10-11 on the world-famous Streets of Long Beach course. New and existing fans unable to attend will be able to watch via RACER Network and the embedded via the RACER+ player at formulad.com.

 

*Coverage to air on www.formulad.com from Round 2 at Road Atlanta.

 

NEXT ROUND

The 2026 Formula DRIFT season will open April 10-11 on The Streets of Long Beach. For tickets, driver profiles, event schedules, and livestream access, please visit formulad.com.

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