GT Radial has reaffirmed its commitment to Formula DRIFT, announcing an extended partnership that will see the brand continue supplying tires for the PRO Championship teams through the 2028 season. Additionally, the company will maintain its role as the Official Tire for the PROSPEC series, dedicated to nurturing emerging talent, for another two years.
In the 2024 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship, GT Radial narrowly missed defending its 2023 Tire Cup title but enjoyed numerous triumphs throughout the season.
The season concluded on October 19 at Irwindale Speedway in California, with GT Radial securing second place among the six competing tire manufacturers. The brand celebrated a remarkable tally of seven podium finishes across eight events, underscoring its growing influence in the sport.
One of the standout moments of the season was the performance of 14-year-old Hiroya Minowa, who was named 2024 FD Rookie of the Year while driving on GT Radial tires. Minowa made history in St. Louis as the youngest competitor ever to claim a podium spot in Formula DRIFT. Driving for the Enjuku Racing/Cusco/Yellowspeed Racing Toyota GT86 team, Minowa followed up this achievement with another second-place finish in Seattle, ultimately ranking fourth in the Driver’s Cup standings.
GT Radial also made headlines when Amanda Sorensen became the first female driver to secure a podium finish in Formula DRIFT. She achieved this milestone during Round 2 of the PROSPEC Championship, where all drivers compete on GT Radial Champiro SX2 RS tires. The PROSPEC series serves as a proving ground for drivers aspiring to compete in the PRO Championship.
Reflecting on the season’s accomplishments, GT Radial Motorsports Manager Mike Meeiem noted that the company’s employees, including those at the Richburg plant producing the competition-grade Champiro SX2 RS tire, could take pride in their contributions. He expressed excitement for the upcoming 2025 season.
The achievements of 2024 build upon GT Radial’s steady progress in Formula DRIFT. After securing fifth place in its debut season, the brand climbed to third in 2021, then second in 2022. In 2023, GT Radial celebrated its first Tire Cup victory, a feat that cemented its reputation as a formidable player in the competition.
With its eyes set on future success, GT Radial continues to solidify its place at the forefront of motorsport innovation and excellence.