SUNCOAST Arena, Durban, was filled with smoke and tyre-screeching action this past weekend as South Africa’s top drifters gathered together to vie for the 2023 Red Bull Car Park Drift title.

Johannesburg’s very own Jim McFarlane drifted his way to victory, beating 24 other drivers.

This year’s competition was a tight one, ending off with underdogs Cale van der Berg and Michael Skelton, past champions Jim McFarlane and Jason Webb, and local hero Paolo Jr Gouviea in the final round. The judges had their work cut out for them, and in the end, it was Jim who proved why he was crowned champion back in 2021 when he clinched his second Red Bull Car Park Drift title with flare and precision.

“Today was very special and unique – yes, drifting is an individual sport, but I have a team behind me that works hard to help me get out there and do what I do. I had problems with the car and was worried about limp mode, but they sorted it out, and I was able to compete. Well done to Red Bull for putting together such an amazing event that also showcases the spirit of comradery. When Cale’s car broke down, everyone came together to fix it. I am really excited about the World Final later this year and hoping to do better than I did the last time I competed there,” said Jim McFarlane.

In addition to the display of great drifting skills, the crowd was treated to a thrilling aerial show by Red Bull athlete and five-time South African aerobatics champion, Pat Davidson, while drifting expert and host Vic Pardal kept the crowd and the drivers’ energy on a high throughout the event.

McFarlane impressed throughout the entire competition, and as the 2023 champion, that he will represent Mzansi at the World Final in Qatar later this year.

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