Kenda Tires Unveils the New VEZDA UHP MAX+ and Expands 2025 Formula DRIFT Driver Lineup
|
Kenda Tires Redefines Ultra-High-Performance with the VEZDA UHP MAX+
Kenda Tires is setting a new benchmark in the ultra-high-performance tire market with the launch of the VEZDA UHP MAX+, a state of the art tire designed for unparalleled grip, precision handling, and long-lasting durability. As part of its deepening investment in motorsports, Kenda has also expanded its Formula DRIFT PRO driver lineup for 2025, reaffirming its commitment to excelling in professional drifting.
Since making its Formula DRIFT debut in 2023, Kenda has rapidly cemented its place in the sport, recently securing a three-year contract extension with the series. Under its Podium2Pavement™ initiative, Kenda continues to push the boundaries of tire performance, rigorously testing its technology in some of the most extreme competitive environments.
Introducing the VEZDA UHP MAX+: Performance Without Limits
The VEZDA UHP MAX+ represents the next generation of ultra-high-performance tires, delivering race-winning speed while maintaining street-ready durability. Featuring an advanced silica-infused compound, the MAX+ provides enhanced lateral grip, ultra-responsive handling, and superior wear performance offering drivers a competitive edge from qualifying runs to podium finishes.
Key Performance Benefits of the VEZDA UHP MAX+:
- Unmatched Grip & Control – High-performance tread compounds maximize surface adhesion, ensuring razor-sharp turns and explosive exits.
- Precision Handling at High Speeds – An optimized tread pattern enhances predictability, reducing understeer and oversteer during aggressive maneuvers.
- Extreme Durability – Designed for peak performance over multiple drift runs, resisting heat cycling and excessive wear.
- Street-Ready & Track-Proven – As a DOT-approved, 200TW tire, it balances track-level grip with real-world drivability, making it ideal for both professionals and enthusiasts.
- Proven in Open Competition – Developed and tested in Formula DRIFT, grassroots drifting, and HPDE (high-performance driving events), ensuring real-world validation.
“Kenda’s MAX+ technology delivers an unprecedented blend of track aggression and daily reliability,” said Brandon Stotsenburg, Vice President of Automotive at Kenda Tire. “Drivers want a tire that can push the limits on race day while still being dependable for everyday use. The VEZDA UHP MAX+ isn’t just another performance tire—it’s a game-changer in competitive drifting and beyond. Equally important, the technologies developed in this tire directly translate to our other Vezda products used every day by consumers.”
Kenda Expands Its 2025 Formula DRIFT PRO Roster
Building on its growing influence in Formula DRIFT, Kenda is expanding its driver lineup for the 2025 season, equipping an elite group of competitors with the VEZDA UHP MAX+. A standout feature for teams is Kenda’s commitment to offering the same DOT tread designs and construction across all sizes , ensuring optimal performance for both front and rear tire setups .
New Additions to the 2025 Roster:
- Fredric Aasbø (Norway) – Papadakis Racing | 3-Time Formula DRIFT PRO Champion | Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra
- Ryan Tuerck (USA) – Papadakis Racing | 2024 Round 6-Seattle Winner | Rain-X Toyota GR Corolla
- Simen Olsen (Norway) – Simen Olsen Drifting | 2021 FD Rookie of the Year | Toyota GR Supra
- Daniel Stuke (USA) – MspeK Performance | MspeK Performance Nissan Silvia Spec-R
- Austin Matta (USA) – Austin Matta Motorsports | Austin Matta Motorsports Nissan S14
Returning Team Kenda Drivers:
- Ken Gushi (Japan) – Three’s Racing | GReddy Racing Moty’s Toyota GR86
- Jhonnattan Castro (Dominican Republic) – Jhonnattan Castro Racing | LTH, Mobil 1 / Toyota GR86
- Nick Noback (USA) – Noback Racing Co. | Kenda Tires Noback Racing BMW E46
- Jonathan Hurst (USA) – Cash Racing | MRCOOL Cadillac XLR
- Derek Madison (USA) – Team Infamous | Fuelab, IG Motorsports.com S14
With an elite driver lineup, cutting-edge tire technology, and a long-term commitment to the sport, Kenda Tires is primed to make a major impact in the 2025 Formula DRIFT season.
For the full Kenda Tires announcement click here .
