The Best Drift Car Racers in the World and Where the Top Drifting Nations Are
Drifting is one of the most thrilling motorsports in the world, combining precision, power, and style in a way that few other sports can. While there’s no single answer to who the best drift car racer is, there are several names that stand out in the drift scene, alongside certain countries that have become known as drift powerhouses. Let’s break down the top drift racers and the countries that have shaped the sport’s landscape.
Who’s the Best Drift Car Racer in the World?
1. Chris Forsberg (USA)
A name that consistently comes up in conversations about the best drifters in the world is Chris Forsberg. As a three-time Formula Drift champion, Forsberg is a fixture of American drifting and a fan favorite. Known for his controlled aggression and consistent performances, Forsberg has dominated both U.S. and international competitions. His relationship with Nissan and Toyota has made him one of the most recognized drivers in the sport, proving time and again that he can win in high-pressure situations.
2. Daigo Saito (Japan)
If there’s one name that stands as the face of Japanese drifting, it’s Daigo Saito. Known for his aggressive style and mastery over high-powered cars, Saito is the first driver to win both the D1 Grand Prix (Japan’s premier drifting series) and Formula Drift USA—a monumental feat. His combination of speed and technical ability has made him a legend in the drifting world, and he continues to be a fierce competitor internationally.
3. Fredric Aasbø (Norway)
Another top contender for best drifter is Fredric Aasbø from Norway. Aasbø’s precise driving style and his ability to adapt to a variety of tracks have made him a consistent threat in Formula Drift USA, where he won the 2015 championship. Aasbø’s reputation extends beyond his success in the U.S.; his dominance in Formula Drift Asia and the Drift Allstars series has cemented him as one of the sport’s elite drivers.
4. Ken Block (USA)
While Ken Block is better known for his viral Gymkhana videos and his rally racing background, his influence on drifting has been undeniable.
Block’s signature style of aggressive, precise drifting in extreme environments has inspired a new generation of drifting fans. His performance in events like Formula Drift and Global RallyCross has earned him a place among the sport's biggest names, even if he's not primarily known as a full-time drifter.
Top Drifting Countries: Where the Best Racers Come From?
Drifting has become a global phenomenon, but there are a few countries that have established themselves as the epicenters of the sport. Let’s take a closer look at where drifting culture thrives and which countries consistently produce top-tier drivers.
1. Japan – The Birthplace of Drifting
Japan is where drifting all began. The sport’s roots trace back to the mountain roads and touge races of the 1970s, but it was the rise of the D1 Grand Prix in the late 1990s that made drifting an internationally recognized sport. Japanese drivers like Daigo Saito, Kenji Yamanaka, and Masato Kawabata have been trailblazers, not only dominating their home turf but also making an impact on the world stage.
Japan is home to some of the most challenging and technical drifting circuits, with the famous Ebisu Circuit being a mecca for drifting enthusiasts.
The Japanese approach to drifting is all about finesse and technical mastery, with drivers spending years honing their skills on tight, twisty courses.
2. United States – The Drift Capital of the World
The U.S. has become the global drifting powerhouse thanks to the Formula Drift series, which began in 2004. Formula Drift is now considered the top professional drifting series, drawing competitors from around the world, including the U.S., Japan, Norway, and beyond. The U.S. has produced multiple champions like Chris Forsberg, Fredric Aasbø, and Ryan Tuerck, all of whom have dominated Formula Drift events across the country.
The U.S. is also home to a massive grassroots drifting scene, with events held year-round in major cities and small towns alike. With a focus on building cars from the ground up, the American drift scene places a premium on performance tuning, car modification, and creative driving. Cities like Long Beach, California, host some of the most prestigious drifting events, drawing in thousands of fans and creating a solid foundation for new talent.
4. New Zealand – The Hidden Drift Gem
New Zealand might not be the first country that comes to mind when thinking of drifting, but it has produced some serious talent, including Andrew Redward and Dylan Hughes. The country’s competitive series, D1NZ, has created a strong foundation for local drivers to sharpen their skills. Drivers from New Zealand are known for their controlled aggression and ability to adapt to tight, technical courses.
The influence of New Zealand’s drift scene extends beyond its borders, with Kiwi drivers regularly competing in global competitions like Formula Drift and the Drift Masters Grand Prix in Europe.
5. United Kingdom – European Drift Contenders
The UK has become one of Europe’s drift powerhouses, with a growing community of enthusiasts and professional drivers. James Deane is the standout British drifter, having won multiple Formula Drift championships and proved that British drivers can compete at the highest level internationally. The British Drift Championship (BDC) has developed a strong following, and drivers like Matt Watson and Steve ‘Baggsy’ Biagioni continue to push the sport forward in the UK.
The British drifting scene emphasizes technical driving, with drivers often focusing on precision and consistency rather than sheer speed or aggression.
Conclusion: Who’s the Best?
When it comes to who the best drift car racer is, there’s no clear-cut answer—it’s subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, Chris Forsberg, Daigo Saito, Fredric Aasbø, and Ken Block are among the most influential and successful drifters globally, each contributing to the sport in their unique ways.
As for the best drifting countries, Japan remains the birthplace and spiritual home of drifting, but the United States, Norway, and New Zealand are all strong contenders, producing top-tier drivers and competitive series.
Drifting is a sport that transcends borders, and with so many talented drivers and passionate countries behind it, the future of drifting looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re into the classic Japanese style or prefer the raw power of American drifting, there’s no shortage of excitement in the world of drift racing.
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