Drifting
The world's top drifters will be battling out in Liverpool, England on August 19. Let's take a closer look at the competitors.
High octane drifting around the streets of a major city? No, it's not a new racing game, but a brand new experience for the UK. Who's wild enough to get behind the wheel? It's certainly a colourful line-up!
1. 'Mad Mike' Whiddett
Hailing From: New Zealand
Car Choice: Mazda RX-8 'RADBUL'
Career Highlight: 3rd place at the 2016 Formula Drift World Championships
Red Bull Drift Shifters is the brain-child of Mike Whiddett, who has competed in the previous contests in New Zealand. Earning the 'Mad' nickname at an early age, Mike has become a superstar of the drifting scene. Pulling off breakneck manoeuvres and pushing his car to the limit in competition, there's never a dull moment with him around.
2. James Deane
Hailing From: Ireland
Car Choice: Mazda RX7 FD3S
Career Highlight: 2017 Formula Drift Champion
Entering the drift world from a young age, James is one of the most explosive talents on the scene. The many championships he's taken home from the age of 17, including the 2017 Formula Drift Championship (which his leading on points in 2018), prove that he has game. Deane knows how to perform under pressure so we can't wait to see him shredding around the Liverpool docks.
The charming Irishman will no doubt be a crowd favourite on the day.
3. Matt Carter
Hailing from: England
Car Choice: Toyota IS200
Career Highlight: Two-time British Drift Champion
It wouldn't be an all-star line-up without Matt. He's the one and only Briton to have twice won the British Drift Championship. A fearsome competitor, he'll be challenging throughout the event. Some call him an artist of the sport, so here's hoping he'll treat us to some of his best work.
4. Fredric Aasbø
Hailing From: Norway
Car Choice: Toyota GT86
Career Highlight: Most Wins in Formula Drift History
The gnarly Norwegian is truly drifting royalty. He has dominated the Formula Drift series in the United States over the years, claiming the most wins in Formula Drift history. What does this mean for the Red Bull Drift Shifters? He will most certainly be up there fighting for the win, as he clearly knows how to get his head in the game for competition and execute with style.
5. Forrest Wang
Hailing From: USA
Car Choice: Nissan 240sx s14
Career Highlight: 2nd Place Formula Drift Long Beach
Born in the tropical paradise of Hawaii, Forrest brings an exciting style of drifting stemming from his vibrant routes. Few can match his raw talent and control of the car, so he'll be a definite contender.
Hopefully we'll see some fireworks on the day, which his competitors will certainly be expecting!
