The highly anticipated 23rd Formula Drift season is set to kick off this weekend in Long Beach, USA. The excitement was palpable at last night’s press conference, which was graced by James Deane, Aurimas Bakchis, Fredric Aasbo, Conor Shanahan, Jack Shanahan and Hiroya Minowa. Here are the key takeaways from the event.
Aurimas: “In recent years, I have tried to create a successful and profitable team, and I have succeeded. This year, I will try to enjoy driving more and think less about business. Last year, we had many problems with the engine; I hope we have solved the problems that tormented us.”
James Deane (first in 2024): “I don’t have to prove anything to anyone; I will just drive for pleasure. Last year, I tried to spend as much time as possible behind the wheel of a Mustang; this year, I am spending a lot of time building one for Drift Masters.”
Fredric Aasbo (third in 2024): “This year, we will use different tyres; we are switching to Kenda. This is the biggest change in our team. When it comes to the best drifters in the world, I think they are the ones who drive Drift Masters”.
Hiroya Minowa (fourth in 2024): “Formula Drift demands a completely different driving style than I’m used to in Japan, but I’ve been adapting. This year, I believe it will be easier. The battles with James Deane were particularly memorable, as it was a dream come true to compete against him. The battles with Odi and Conor were equally enjoyable.”
Conor Shanahan (eighth in 2024): “Last year was difficult because there were many things to get used to. The steering wheel was not where I was used to; it was a different car with a different engine. This year, it will be easier in terms of the technical side. Of course, I want to win, but I understand that everyone sitting here wants the same thing. Jack is in the Russian championship, beating a lot of strong athletes, including James.
Jack Shanahan (rookie): “Last year in Long Beach, I was spotting Conor, and I wanted him to win. This weekend, I want to win. It won’t be easy because everything will be new, including the car, the engine, and the track. This weekend, the track will be the most similar to where I had to race in Europe.”
