After spending the last ten years abroad, I finally found myself back at a Formula Drift event, specifically at Road Atlanta, my personal favorite track in the series. The thrill of this venue lies in its high-speed straights, dramatic elevation changes, and complex twists and turns, making it one of the most exhilarating circuits on the calendar.
Excitement filled the air at Road Atlanta and this particular event is now in my top three events, if not the top spot I’ve attended. Despite my long absence, many drivers still recognized me, leading to some heartwarming reunions. A highlight was reconnecting with three-time Formula Drift Champion Chris Forsberg, to whom I presented a signed CGC magazine a piece of memorabilia from a past shoot.
Adding to the excitement, I had the chance to chat briefly with T-Pain, who has joined Adam LZ on their drift tour. It’s always fascinating to see celebrities engage in their hobbies and attend these events.
However, not everything was perfect. The Ford Experience, while undoubtedly a lucrative sponsorship for Formula Drift, took over the space previously occupied by the Tuner Battlegrounds car show. This change was disappointing as it replaced a beloved showcase of diverse cars. If both could be accommodated, it would certainly enhance the event experience. Nevertheless, I appreciate Formula Drift’s efforts to innovate and grow the event.
The on-track action was unparalleled. Drivers pushed their limits, leading to some of the most intense battles I’ve witnessed. One memorable moment saw RTR teammates Vaughn Gittin Jr. and James Deane face off in the first round. Gittin overtook Deane mid-track, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win. Meanwhile, Kyle Mohan’s dramatic crash into the cement barrier marked a first for me at Road Atlanta’s drifting events.
Controversy wasn’t absent, either. The matchup between Adam LZ and Matt Field sparked debate, with many, including Adam, feeling he deserved the win. This controversy echoed sentiments on social media about the unpredictability of judging in the series.
Rome Charpentier’s battle against Odi Bakchis was another highlight. By the time they faced off, Charpentier’s car was barely holding together. In their final run, a catastrophic failure led Bakchis’s car to catch fire, ending the night for both competitors. This incident paved the way for Simen Olsen to advance to the finals uncontested.
In the end, it was three-time champion Fredric Aasbo who took home the victory. Displaying his signature clean and precise driving, Aasbo triumphed over James Deane in the final four and ultimately bested Simen Olsen in the finals. This win was crucial, boosting him to third in the championship standings.
Overall, the return to Road Atlanta was a thrilling blend of nostalgia and new experiences, proving once again why this track holds a special place in the hearts of Formula Drift fans.
