Formula Drift Atlanta 2025

While the expanded programming and festival-like atmosphere of the Formula Drift Atlanta round captured the imagination of fans, it was the intense rivalry between two of Formula Drift’s most decorated drivers that defined the competition’s narrative arc. With a combined total of seven Formula Drift Championships between them, Fredric Aasbø, behind the wheel of his formidable Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra—and James Deane, piloting the ever-potent Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD delivered a three-part showdown that will undoubtedly go down as one of the season’s most talked-about storylines.

Their first encounter was an instant classic. Both drivers showcased razor-sharp precision, technical mastery, and deep knowledge of the Road Atlanta course, prompting judges to call for a One More Time (OMT) after they were unable to determine a clear winner. The rematch, however, stirred significant controversy. In what many fans and commentators perceived to be a slight edge for Aasbø, the drivers had already begun their celebratory donuts down by the keyhole, seemingly under the impression that a decision had been made. To the surprise of the crowd and competitors alike, Formula Drift officials called both drivers back to the starting line for yet another OMT—a rare and puzzling moment that sparked debate across social media and in the paddock.

As if the stakes weren’t high enough, the third and final battle unfolded under wet and challenging conditions. Rain slicked the course, but neither Aasbo nor Deane showed signs of hesitation. Both maintained control of their high-powered machines with remarkable finesse, delivering one of the cleanest and most competitive tandems of the weekend. The margin between them was razor-thin—so close that another OMT seemed not only likely, but fair. Yet, in a decision that brought the drama to a head, the Formula Drift judges ultimately awarded the win to James Deane, bringing him even with Aasbø in the championship standings while adding yet another epic chapter to the Deane-Aasbø rivalry.

The intensity and controversy of their trilogy set a new benchmark for the season, reminding fans of the razor-edge competition and dramatic twists that define Formula DRIFT at its best.

One of the biggest storylines of the Atlanta event was the innovative and unprecedented collaboration between Formula DRIFT and GRIDLIFE. Known for blending grassroots motorsport with high-octane entertainment, GRIDLIFE’s presence brought a fresh energy and expansive programming to the event. This fusion of motorsport cultures created an all-encompassing festival atmosphere that appealed to longtime fans of Formula DRIFT as well as newcomers and broader motorsport enthusiasts. Fans enjoyed a unique motorsport experience where professional drift battles were joined by GRIDLIFE’s hallmark offerings, including Time Attack, GLTC (GRIDLIFE Touring Cup), Rush SR racing, and the much-anticipated GRIDLIFE Full Course Drift. The Full Course Drift event was a particular highlight. Taking advantage of Road Atlanta’s 2.54-mile, 12-turn layout, this exhibition allowed selected drivers to drift the entire circuit—something rarely seen at a professional level. It was both a visual spectacle and a technical challenge, drawing significant attention and applause from attendees and online viewers alike.

With two rounds complete in the Formula DRIFT PRO Championship, the title race is heating up. James Deane and Fredric Aasbo are currently tied with 90 points. Odi Bakchis remains in a close third with 50 points. He could be a serious threat heading into the heart of the season.

The Formula DRIFT PROSPEC standings are led by Cory Talaska following his breakthrough win, but with several rounds remaining, Brutskiy, Buchanan, and others are close behind.