Liwa Drift Race kicks off with elite drivers and daring maneuvers

Abu Dhabi: With the participation of elite professional and amateur drivers, the ‘Liwa Drift Race’ kicked off this Friday evening, showcasing exceptional skills in vehicle control and daring drift maneuvers on the specially designed Moreeb Dune Track. Drift car racing is a globally recognised motorsport, featuring numerous competitions at both local and international levels. Drift racing first appeared in the festival during the 2018 season and has since become a regular feature on the festival’s agenda due to its resounding success.

The competition is divided into two categories: Liwa Drift Pro, which brings together professional drivers and stars from various countries, representing the pinnacle of drift racing. This category is exclusively for seasoned drivers, ensuring that only the most skilled and competitive participants take part, offering spectators the chance to witness outstanding performances. Additionally, a separate category is dedicated to amateur drivers, providing an opportunity for emerging talents to participate.

The judging committee has outlined the competition’s rules and regulations through the club’s mobile application, detailing the required conditions, vehicle specifications, entry and exit protocols, and participation guidelines. The event began at 6:00pm and spans Friday and Saturday, featuring free practice sessions for participants and professionals before transitioning to the official competition and drift showcases.

A thrilling motorsport experience

Drift racing offers a unique and high-intensity motorsport experience. The competition involves two cars drifting simultaneously on the custom-designed track, creating a spectacular show that captivates audiences, especially younger fans. The sport’s appeal lies in its simple yet thrilling formula: the screech of tires, the clouds of smoke, and the sharp angles at which the cars drift around the track.

A distinctive scoring system, developed by the judging panel, evaluates the performance of two cars side by side. Points are systematically calculated to determine the finalists, culminating in the announcement of the winners during the final day of the competition.

A celebration of talent

Mohammed Al Mughoni, Vice Chairman of the Liwa Sports Club, emphasised the significance of the Liwa Drift Race as one of the premier events combining professionalism with a passion for motorsports. He stated: “We have worked diligently to provide a state-of-the-art track and ensure high safety standards for a secure and enjoyable experience for participants and spectators alike. Our goal is to make this event a beacon of sportsmanship that celebrates local and international talent. We look forward to witnessing exceptional performances from the competitors this year.”

Meanwhile, a variety of activities, challenges, and daily shows continue at Moreeb Dune, making it an ideal destination for families to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Liwa International Festival 2025.

Delighting audiences

Drift racing’s origins can be traced back to a driving style aimed at entertaining and thrilling audiences. Over time, it has evolved into a full-fledged sport that captivates car enthusiasts and even non-motorsport fans who enjoy the sound and spectacle of cars maneuvering dynamically on the track. The event concludes with a celebratory awards ceremony honouring the winners.