Rain Conquers 2026 Formula DRIFT Indianapolis, Forces Cancellation of PRO Competition
Formula DRIFT made its way to Indianapolis Raceway Park, the second of three all-new venues introduced in the 2026 calendar. Driven to build upon the remarkable success achieved at the previous Stafford round, the series sought to keep its positive momentum going. As part of this effort, specific sections of the track were paved to provide a more captivating layout for both spectators and competitors.
These track modifications were created through a collaborative effort involving the Formula DRIFT Competition Department, Judges, and Driver Liaisons. Throughout the event weekend, the Series proactively adjusted the course configuration after consulting with the teams. These revisions were designed to smooth the drivers’ adaptation to the new venue and bolster safety, all while remaining within certified tolerances.
While Formula DRIFT is known for competing regardless of rain, the situation intensified after more than half of the PRO Top 32 bracket was completed. The relentless downpour triggered local flash flood alerts, forcing an eventual cancellation after incredible attempts to pump the water and clear the track. It was the first time in the series’ 23-year history that an event could not be completed in its entirety.
PROSPEC
Collete Davis came prepped with a new banked track car utilizing data developed from Stafford, but could only take advantage of a single lap in the first practice session due to several drivers crashing on the technical course. After the course was changed, she was able to get in some clean laps during the second practice session and was able to qualify P16 for the main competition.
In her Top 32 battle against Sam Maghmoumi, Collete’s BMW over-angled while transitioning coming out of the bank during her lead run. She had a solid chase but it wasn’t enough due to her mistake on the lead, ending her event early.
“This is the most comfortable I’ve ever been on a banked track and I’m feeling more confident than ever in the car,” Davis said. “Huge thanks to my team and ENEOS for making this fight possible — and a massive shout-out to the fans at Indy, who packed the stands in the pouring rain with non-stop energy!”
PRO
As the Top 32 heats commenced, ominous storm clouds loomed, followed by a light drizzle over the circuit. With only six slots remaining, the downpour became severe, and a pair of lightning strikes necessitated an immediate evacuation of the grandstands to ensure the safety of all attendees.
Once the initial cell passed, an estimated 60,000 to 100,000 gallons of water flooded the track surface and throughout the paddock area. Track officials and FD personnel immediately deployed multiple water pumps, and efforts were further bolstered by acquiring additional equipment from local suppliers and high-capacity units provided by the local Fire Department.
Despite an exhaustive five-hour struggle against the rising floodwaters, significant progress was hampered when heavy rain returned at 11 PM. With the clock running out and the FD team reaching the limits of their endurance, the decision was made to suspend recovery operations. Faced with no viable alternatives, the Series was forced to take the difficult step of canceling the remainder of the competition.
Team ENEOS driver Fredric Aasbo completed practice in the Rockstar Energy Toyota GR Supra, qualifying P20 and prepared to face James Deane in a round that carried significant championship implications.
“I was really looking forward to the battle with James,” said Aasbo. “Those are the matchups you want when you’re fighting for a championship because you have an opportunity to make up points directly against the guy you’re chasing. We never got that chance, so now we reset and take that fight to Seattle.”
The night ended with a driver “takeover” along the front stretch that culminated in tandem donuts and burnouts for the fans. It wasn’t the competition they hoped to see, but it was still an incredible experience to thank FD fans for toughing it out throughout such a lengthy delay.
NEXT RACE
Aasbo now turns his focus towards Evergreen Speedway for Round 6 of the PRO Championship from August 21–22.