Round 1 of the King of Drift 2026 season set a new benchmark for competition, delivering what many are already calling the best battles in the history of the series.
From the Top 32 all the way to the Final, every run was intense. Cars ran door-to-door with mere inches between them, pushing precision and control to the absolute limit. The level of competition made judging incredibly challenging, with multiple calls going down to the finest details.
The event opened with a powerful moment.
Reigning champion Giorgi Kodua entered the arena carrying his crown and placed it on the King’s pillow in front of the spectators.
A clear message was sent:
the throne is no longer his to keep — it is now up for battle.
With this symbolic act, a new King of Drift tradition has officially begun. The crown now awaits its next owner, to be claimed at the end of the season.
1st Place – Sandro Popkhadze (Wissol Racing Team)
2nd Place – Sevastian Malykhin
3rd Place – Giorgi Kodua (Wissol Racing Team)
If Round 1 is any indication, the 2026 season is shaping up to be the most competitive yet.
The crown has been placed.
The challenge has been issued.
Now the fight for the throne truly begins.