Formula Drift 2025: The Shoreline Showdown

Oct 19

JAMES DEAN VS HIROYA MINOWA // IMAGE BY LARRY CHEN : FORMULA DRIFT LONG BEACH

Stakes are always high, and reputation only carries you so far. Precision and speed decide who stands on the podium, and this season has been no exception. The 2025 Formula Drift season brought its share of tough breaks, blazing victories, and unforgettable moments that kept fans locked in from start to finish.

With the legendary Irwindale Speedway now retired from the rotation, it was only fitting that the season both began and ended on the streets of Long Beach. The city’s tight corners and ocean-side backdrop set the stage for an electrifying finale that kept everyone guessing until the very last run.

As the championship reached its conclusion, all eyes were on the top contenders. James Deane had already secured a solid hold on first place in the season standings, but the battle for second and third remained wide open between Matt Field, Fredric Aasbø, and Adam LZ. Day two of the Long Beach finale brought heartbreak for all three challengers: Adam LZ’s climb ended in the Top 16 after falling to Jack Shanahan, Aasbø was eliminated by the rising star Hiroya Minowa, and Matt Field’s run came to an end against Ryan Tuerck.

When the smoke cleared, the season podium stood tall with James Deane in first overall, Matt Field in second, and Fredric Aasbø in third — a trio of heavy hitters and a fitting close to a stacked season.

The Long Beach stop itself, however, delivered its own set of surprises. During his battle with Minowa, Deane was pushed to his limits as the young Japanese driver showcased fearless precision, ultimately taking the win and moving forward. Jack Shanahan continued his hot streak, advancing after his run with Tuerck, setting up a thrilling final face-off: Minowa vs. Shanahan.

But just as the anticipation reached its peak, Minowa’s car issues came to light. A stubborn fire in the rear wheel well forced him to step out before the final battle. In a display of true sportsmanship, Minowa walked over to congratulate Shanahan at the line, officially conceding the top spot.

When it was all said and done, the podium for the Long Beach “Shoreline Showdown” was set: Jack Shanahan in first, Hiroya Minowa in second, and James Deane rounding it out in third.

The season may have ended, but the intensity, respect, and raw passion that define Formula Drift were on full display until the very last lap. Long Beach reminded us once again — in drifting, anything can happen.