It is a thrilling and long-awaited event for many fans. The annual drifting competition that takes place on the streets of Long Beach attracts the best drivers from around the world. i-los-angeles tells more about the competition and its features.
When did Formula DRIFT competition appear?
One of the most popular and prestigious events in the world of drifting appeared in 2003. Jim Liaw and Ryan Sage were its founders. They managed to launch the first Championship a year later, in 2004. Since then, a lot has changed, the relatively young type of competition has grown and spread throughout the United States. Slipstream Global Marketing, a subsidiary company created by them, became the partner that presented the D1 Grand Prix in the USA.
The main purpose of drifting is to demonstrate advanced car control. It may seem that the driver takes the car out of control. However, he continues to be in control of the situation.
Drifting is becoming more and more popular every year. This is not only a type of motorsport but also a separate philosophy of driving a car at the limit of tire wear when the driver and the car become a single whole. This fascination with drifting can be explained by the cult movies The Fast and the Furious, known for their dynamic racing scenes and stunts. Drifting is somewhat romanticized in them and is shown unrealistically. In real life, it is a difficult and dangerous sport that requires certain skills and many years of training.
In any case, every year, the residents and visitors of Los Angeles look forward to Formula DRIFT because of the adrenaline, the explosion of emotions and the sense of freedom. Drifting is one of the most extreme types of motorsports. The skills of the drivers and their quick reaction is always impressive. In addition, drifting is a spectacle where each driver has his own style and certain tricks. It is also a way to unite people and find new acquaintances.
Features of the competition
We can single out several features that will be interesting to learn about:
- the unique thing is that the drivers do not rush to the finish line but drift along the track
- the competition traditionally takes place on a temporary course laid through the streets of downtown Long Beach. The track has many obstacles and sharp turns. All this makes it an ideal place for the competition. The track is extremely technical, so there is no room for error
- drivers try to score the most points for style, control and drift angle. The winner is the driver who scores the most points in two rounds
- 30-32 riders are registered. However, only 30 are allowed to compete. That is why it is so important to show the best race without mistakes.
Talking about errors, we would like to briefly describe them. Thus, the driver may turn too sharply and not be able to control the car, the car may break down, etc. In general, those drivers who do not qualify are eliminated.
What does it take to win?
- A reliable car that will not break during races.
- A team that knows your car well and will be able to find the breakage and fix it in less than 5 minutes.
- A good and experienced driver who is able to make races with 100 points.
By the way, every driver prepares his plan or a certain strategy for victory in advance. Some contestants choose first slow and then sharp movement, etc.
It is important to note that the organizers continue to improve the competition rules and technical regulations, which are reviewed every year.
The thrill of drifting
Formula DRIFT is a truly exciting event that motorsport fans of all ages look forward to. Thanks to such leisure, one is able to see with their own eyes the best drifting drivers in action. Visitors always talk about the excitement of the competition.
This event is also one of the busiest as Long Beach comes alive during spring holidays when the races are held.
