As we roar into the 2026 Formula Drift season, James Deane is standing on the precipice of a feat that seems nearly impossible.
With five Formula Drift championships already under his belt (2017, 2018, 2019, 2024, 2025), the Irishman holds more championship hardware than anyone in the history of the sport.
By winning the championship this year, he wouldn’t just earn another title — he would achieve an unprecedented second championship three-peat.
“If it happens, let's celebrate — but if it doesn’t, it just fuels the hunger to come back in 2027.”
Despite the weight of the history books, Deane remains unfazed. For him, the trophies are a byproduct of competing, not the reason he gets behind the wheel.
"It’s crazy to think about," Deane said. "I was the first to three-peat, the first to four titles, and now the first to five. Another three-peat hasn’t even crossed my mind. If it happens, let's celebrate—but if it doesn’t, it just fuels the hunger to come back in 2027 and hunt that number one spot again."
Deane’s aim for 2026 is simple: Full throttle, no compromises.
The 2025 season was a blur of success. Deane delivered a performance so clinical he became the first driver in Formula Drift history to lock up the championship before the final round even began.
"I knew it was possible, but I didn’t think it would actually happen," Deane reflected. "When it did, it was emotional and a bit bittersweet. I was celebrating with my crew and friends in the U.S., but it was weird to not have my family there. I got to celebrate with them at the finale in Long Beach though, which was really cool.”
In 2026, the world is Deane's playground. He’s taking his Ford Racing Mustang RTR on a global tour, competing in full seasons of both Formula Drift in the States and the Drift Masters championship in Europe.
“Last year was our first year running the Mustang in Europe, and we learned a lot about it,” Deane said. “Going into this year, a big goal I have is just pushing as hard as possible on both sides of the pond.”
“Going into this year, a big goal I have is just pushing as hard as possible on both sides of the pond.”
The strategy for this year is the same as it always has been for Deane.
““I go by the saying one step at a time, and I really approach drifting like that,” Deane explained. “Each event, every lap, I just take it one step at a time.”
The countdown is on, and the air is thick with anticipation. As the 2026 season opener looms, James Deane is wired to get back into action.
“Getting out there and meeting all the fans that support us, and seeing the other drivers after this break, is something I’m looking forward to,” Deane said. “It’s always exciting to go back to the first event, meet everyone, and see what everyone has been doing. I love exploring a paddock, seeing the advancements the other teams are making, seeing the competition we’re up against.”
“Each event, every lap, I just take it one step at a time.”
Deane is entering year four of his powerhouse partnership with Ford Racing. For him, being a part of the “Ford family” is incredibly rewarding.
“One thing I love working with Ford is the fact we get to collaborate and hang out with racing drivers from all different disciplines, and I think that’s really cool,” Deane expressed. “We’re telling them everything about drifting. They’re telling us about NASCAR, drag racing, rally, or even F1. It’s really cool to have those doors open because we’re all part of the Ford family.”
The hunt for a sixth title begins on the Streets of Long Beach April 10-11. Watch the event live on YouTube.
Ford, Mustang, and Ford Racing are trademarks of Ford Motor Company. RTR is a trademark of RTR Vehicles.
Kourtney Karr is Motorsports marketing manager at Ford.
