International Drift – The Best Drifting Events Worldwide

Now you don’t need us to tell you that drifting is a worldwide phenomenon. From Japan to Ireland, California to the Nurburgring, drifting is now a global sport with a massive worldwide following. And as you all know, it’s only going to get better. And with so many events around the world, we thought we’d take a look at some of the best locations for a drifting vacation.

Prizefight – Mondello Park, Ireland

Surprisingly enough, drifting is massive in Ireland. In fact, we’re sure you already know that the 2017 Formula Drift World Champion is Irishman James Deane (yes, it’s a pretty cool name alright!) On the Emerald Isle they’re spoilt for choice when it comes to drifting events, but the pick of the bunch has to be Prizefight. The 2017 event was the biggest one-day prize in Irish drift history, with 80 drivers from all over the world taking to the tarmac on the day. Mondello Park is just thirty miles from the center of Dublin City so a trip to this event could also see you take in the sights in the birthplace of Guinness.

Manx Drag and Drift – The Isle of Man

Located just off the coast of the UK, the Isle of Man is more famous for being the home of the world famous TT motorbike races. But each year, drag racers and drifters descend upon the scenic island to witness what can only be described as rubber burning carnage. The event, which is sponsored by locally-based online poker giant PokerStars, is one of the highlights on the European drift and drag circuit. And with the island being something of a tourist spot, it’s the perfect location for a bit of European drifting in an idyllic setting. Quaint little English hamlets packed with traditional pubs and the roar of V8 engines. Sounds pretty relaxing to us.

Drift GP at Barcelona – Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona

This world famous track was the setting for the opening weekend of the 2018 European Drift GP – and what a venue it is. Located just a short taxi-ride from the center of this incredible Spanish city, the circuit is a drifter’s dream come true. We’re not sure when the next drifting event will take place here, but when it does, it’s an option well worth considering. With incredible turns and a pretty rich motorsport history, this is one of the most exotic European drifting destinations we can think of.

Australian Drifting Grand Prix – Various

Okay, so we’re cheating a little here and not choosing a specific event in Australia. The local drifting circuit is a big deal Down Under and, just like in the States, there are many incredible tracks. The reason we’re putting Australia on the list, however, is more to do with their cars. In Europe, you’ll find plenty of German cars and a lot of Japanese imports, but over in Oz they love their locally made V8s. Holdens rule the roost and it’s worth the trip just to see the cars alone. Even the Fords over there are completely different to the models you’ll find anywhere else in the world. For cars you’ll only see in Oz, and the chance to hold a koala, Australia is one for the bucket list.

Tokyo Drift – Obaida, Tokyo

And last, but by no means least, is the land that for some is the Mecca of drifting. Japanese drifters are said to be the stuff of legend and with some of the best cars in the world at their disposal we can understand why. The Obaida track hosts the annual Tokyo Drift event where the country’s leading drivers face off in what is Japan’s most famous drifting event. Located just outside the city proper, this event is one that ticks off all the boxes for the seasoned drifter. Countless Japanese supercars; check. Fearless drivers; check. A wild crowd; check. What more could you ask for?

So, the next time you’re planning a vacation think outside the box. Whether it’s a trip to Ireland and the home of Drift champion James Deane or a ‘quiet’ weekend on an idyllic island off the coast of the UK, this kind of vacation beats a weekend at the beach any day of the week. So what are you waiting for?