Formula Drift Returns to Long Beach

Drivers compete in first day of annual drifting competition

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:34am

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A vibrant, expressionist painting featuring the blurred, high-speed movements of drifting cars on a city street, with neon-colored streaks of light and smoke trailing behind the vehicles.The streets of Long Beach come alive with the high-powered, tire-smoking action of Formula Drift, as drivers push the limits of their cars and driving skills.Long Beach Today

The annual Formula Drift competition returned to the streets of Long Beach, California on Friday, as drivers from around the world showcased their skills in the first day of the two-day event.

Why it matters

Formula Drift is one of the most popular motorsports events in Southern California, drawing large crowds to witness the high-powered, tire-smoking action of professional drifting. The Long Beach event is a highlight of the Formula Drift calendar, taking place on the iconic streets of the coastal city.

The details

Drivers maneuvered their high-powered, rear-wheel-drive vehicles through a series of tight turns and straightaways, performing controlled slides and drifts to impress the judges. The competition featured both individual and team events, with drivers vying for points and position in the overall Formula Drift championship.

  • The Formula Drift Long Beach event took place on April 10-11, 2026.
  • Friday's action was the first of two days of competition.

The players

Formula Drift

A professional drifting championship series that hosts events across North America, featuring some of the world's top drifting drivers and teams.

Long Beach

A coastal city in Southern California that has hosted the Formula Drift event on its city streets for many years.

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What they’re saying

“It's always an amazing experience to drift on the streets of Long Beach. The fans here are so passionate and the energy is unmatched.”

— Fredric Aasbø, Formula Drift Driver

“This is one of the most challenging courses on the Formula Drift calendar, but that's what makes it so exciting for both the drivers and the fans.”

— Chelsea Denofa, Formula Drift Driver

What’s next

The Formula Drift Long Beach event will conclude on Saturday, April 11, 2026 with the final rounds of competition.

The takeaway

Formula Drift's return to the streets of Long Beach showcases the thrilling, high-octane sport of professional drifting, drawing passionate fans to witness the skilled drivers push the limits of their cars and driving abilities.