Drift racing's origins are debated, but it gained popularity in Japan in the 1970s with street racers and in touge (mountain pass) competitions. Kunimitsu Takahashi, a motorcycle and race car driver, is often credited with developing techniques that became drifting. The sport evolved from informal gatherings to organized competitions.
Modern drift competitions, like Formula Drift, involve drivers executing a series of controlled drifts through a designated course. Judges evaluate runs based on a specific line through the course, the angle of the car's drift, the driver's style, and the speed maintained throughout the drift. Tandem drifts, where two cars drift in close proximity, are a highlight.
Key facts
- Originated in Japan, gaining popularity in the 1970s.
- Drivers intentionally induce oversteer for controlled slides.
- Judged on line, angle, style, and speed of the drift.
- Tandem drifting involves two cars drifting together.
- Formula Drift is a prominent professional drifting series.