Formula DRIFT 2026 Driver List Brings Exciting Returns And Disappointments

It’s that time of the year again when we get teased by Formula DRIFT with the initial approved drivers list for the upcoming season. For now, it looks like the 2026 lineup will remain mostly unchanged from last year. However, there are a few notable absences alongside some fan-favorite returns.

Remember that this isn’t the final, definitive driver list; it’s simply the competitors eligible to drive. The final list will be confirmed nearer the start of the 2026 season.

Here are the drivers expected to be fighting it out in the 2026 Formula DRIFT season as they prepare to take on the recently announced schedule shake-up.

Welcome returns to PRO

While it doesn’t seem we’re in for any huge surprises in 2026, fans are delighted to see that all of last year’s top competitors are planning to return for the upcoming season for the time being. Here are some of the most notable highlights:

Wataru Masuyama

After Daigo Saito’s anti-climactic return to FD last year, which came to an abrupt end with drama at the U.S. border, it shouldn’t come as a huge surprise that it looks like Masuyama will be making a comeback.

After occupying Saito’s seat from Round 6 in Seattle onwards, he instantly adapted to the Jerry Yang GR86 and went on to cause plenty of surprises and upsets. Having only got three rounds last year, many fans believe he could be an underdog for the top spots if he gets a full season.

Diego Higa

The Brazilian drifting sensation returns for 2026, which means the livestream will undoubtedly once again be flooded with Brazilian flags! Jokes aside, I feel we’re yet to see the best of what the Hyperdrive star has to offer, and we’re looking forward to seeing what the fresh season has in store.

The Shanahans

Both Conor and Jack stated they weren’t 100% sure they’d be able to return for 2026, but seeing their names resurface gives Irish fans hope they’ll be returning alongside James Deane once again.

Alec Robbins

After taking a year off in 2025, we might get to see Alec Robbins make his comeback with a new program in 2026.

Notable PRO absences

Luke Fink

After hinting that he’d be attending for a full season last year, before being forced to cancel, fans were quick to point out Fink’s absence from this early list. It seems likely he’ll instead be focusing on continuing to develop his 400-acre motorsport compound alongside his return to New Zealand’s D1NZ series.

Daigo Saito

As mentioned above, Wataru Masuyama returns to the Jerry Yang Racing seat in place of Saito. Given the treatment he received from U.S. officials, it’s unlikely he’ll be returning for the foreseeable future.

Forrest Wang

Each year, one of the most talked-about drivers is crowd-pleaser Forrest Wang. Unfortunately, there’s still no news on whether he’ll be returning to FD.

Dean Kearney

Another driver that fans are disappointed not to see on the list. Despite being on the initial 2025 driver list, we’ve not seen Kearney since his last appearance in 2024. Right now, it appears it’s even less likely we’ll get to see him, or his crazy Dodge Viper, this year.

PROSPEC looks set for its most exciting lineup to date

Each year, the standard of drivers in PROSPEC consistently improves, and it appears the upcoming season will be no exception.

No Jimmy Oakes & TJ Hunt

Despite all the rumors, speculation, and hype surrounding a full season from the popular YouTubers, it looks unlikely either driver will compete in 2026.

Sean Booth

The good news is that despite the missing names above, Sean Booth steps in to fill the drifting YouTuber void.

Jason Webb

Not everyone will be familiar with Jason Webb, but the four-time South African drift champion will undoubtedly be looking to shake up PROSPEC in his debut season.