MUSCAT, DEC 4
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as 25 top drifters from 16 countries converge in Muscat to compete for the prestigious title of Red Bull Car Park Drift King. The World Final will take place on Friday at the Muscat Drift Arena, located within the Oman Automobile Association (OAA). Doors will open at 3:30 pm with the high-octane action kicking off at 5:45 pm.
Motorsport enthusiasts and drifting aficionados can look forward to a night of intense competition with the world’s elite drifters putting their skills to the test on one of the most challenging circuits in the event's history. Among the competitors are Oman’s own Haitham al Hadidi, as well as regional stars and Red Bull athletes like Ahmad Daham (UAE), Ali Makseed (Kuwait) and Hisham al Khatib (Egypt), all vying for the ultimate crown.
Four Omanis in fray
Following a qualification round held on November 8 at the Ibri Arena, four Omani drifters have earned their spots in the World Final including: Ahmed al Amri, Ali al Balushi, Haitham al Hadidi and Tariq al Shaihani. Oman’s strong representation is set to rekindle memories of their dominant performance in 2016 at Port Sultan Qaboos in Muttrah, when Omani drifters swept the podium, claiming first, second and third places.
The Red Bull Car Park Drift series kicked off earlier this year at Kuwait Motor Town and spanned 16 countries to identify the best drifters. Participants from different countries as diverse as Georgia, South Africa, Estonia, Bulgaria, Mauritius and Azerbaijan will join competitors from across the Middle East, including Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Iraq and Oman.
Designed for Thrills
Drifting legend and Guinness World Record holder for the longest drift, Abdo Feghali, is serving as the lead drifter for the event. Speaking ahead of the World Final, Feghali expressed his excitement as he said:” This is the time of year when the world’s best car park drifters come together in one place, and this year is particularly special. After a pause in hosting the Car Park Drifting World Final due to events in the region, we are thrilled to be back with the highest number of participants ever.
“The track I have designed this year is one of the fastest and most challenging layouts in CPD history, promising intense action and unforgettable moments. The Sultanate of Oman holds a special place in CPD’s legacy, with Omani drifters dominating the podium back in 2016. Competitors know they are up against fierce local talent this year. Fans, media and everyone attending will witness an electrifying event. I can’t wait to see who will be crowned the CPD World Champion in Oman very soon,” he signed off.
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