Steve Luca won the 2024 NOS Energy TrackBattle Unlimited category with 90 points, with two wins (Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Autobahn Country Club), a second (Lime Rock Park) and a third (Road America). His time at Mid-Ohio, a 1:21.633, is the new overall GRIDLIFE track record.
Chicago, IL - Steve Luca, driver of the #500 Ford Mustang in the GRIDLIFE NOS Energy TrackBattle Championship, won the 2024 Unlimited class championship by four points over Andrius Bertulis in a Lexus RCF. Luca’s Ford Mustang saw significant changes in the offseason and spring, and though Luca entered the championship late in the season, managed to win two events and podium in all four he entered, edging out Bertulis with 90 points to Bertulis’ 86.
Luca’s season began at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, where he would attempt to tackle Feras Qartoumy’s standing track record set in 2021. Luca won the event in class by nearly four seconds and set a new overall GRIDLIFE track record at Mid-Ohio, running a 1:21.633, a tenth quicker than Qartoumy’s time. Jim Rauck, in a rowdy Honda Civic, placed second, with Nicholas Gardner finishing third in his Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.
Luca’s next event was the new Summer Apex Festival at Road America, where he placed third behind Mike Dusold and Gardner. Dusold’s lap time on the freshly repaved course was a track record, but with only a few other events on the calendar for the nearly 2,000 horsepower Chevrolet Camaro, Dusold missed out on winning the title.
At Lime Rock Park in August, Luca finished second, picking up 21 points in pursuit of Sasha Anis, whose hybrid Nissan 350Z “Kels” set the GRIDLIFE overall track record in spectacular fashion on Saturday afternoon. Evan Slater, in a Porsche 944, finished third at Circuit Legends.
The final event Steve Luca competed in for the 2024 season was GRIDLIFE Chicagoland, at Autobahn Country Club, where he beat Ernestas Puzelis and championship rival Andrius Bertulis. Though Bertulis won at Pittsburgh International Race Complex in October, he couldn’t amass enough points to defeat Luca, who had an extra podium and track record.
The championship podium consists of Steve Luca, Andrius Bertulis, and Jeremy Lowder, who gathered 82 points in his #525 Chevrolet Camaro.
Kyle McKiou competed and podiumed for the season in two classes, Street Mod, and Track Mod, but with 3 wins and track records at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Autobahn Country Club, and Pittsburgh International Race Complex, McKiou defeated Brad Perkins by 1 point.
Chicago, IL - While Brad Perkins led the championship charge into the final moments of the NOS Energy TrackBattle Championship in the Track Modern category, his win and track record at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca were not enough to seal the deal. Kyle McKiou, who began running in Track Mod alongside his entry in the same #29 Toyota GR Supra in Street Mod, gathered enough momentum to eclipse Perkins in the final round of the season.
McKiou began his season running strictly in Street Modified, but after three rounds of competing there, opted to run in both Track Mod and Street Mod, splitting his track time between tires and setups. His first round in Track Mod took place at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, where he not only won, but also took a track class record. He beat Brad Perkins and Brandon Hodge, a fellow Toyota GR Supra competitor, to win in Ohio.
McKiou followed up this effort with two consecutive second places finishes to Perkins at Road America and Chicagoland, setting up a dual between himself and the Chicane Motorsports BMW M3. Jackie Ding scored 3rd at Road America, while Chris Smith landed a P3 at Lime Rock behind the two championship leaders. While McKiou skipped WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Perkins pounced on the opportunity, roaring back late in the Podium Sprint session to knock local drivers off the top step and steal a track record in the process.
The roles reversed at Pittsburgh International Race Complex, with Perkins skipping the round and leaving the door open for McKiou. In the first session on Friday, McKiou eclipsed the overall GRIDLIFE track record and earned the additional point needed to bump himself above Perkins - even with a win at the event, he would have lost the tiebreaker without the additional point.
McKiou also managed to score several podiums in Street Mod while competing in Track Mod, and finished 2nd in the Street Mod class. His season undoubtedly is one of the most impressive in NOS TrackBattle Series history.
2024 GRIDLIFE TOURING CUP CHAMPION: MATAN ROSENBERG
Matan Rosenberg won 10 races in 32 starts, and won the weekend at GingerMan RAceway, Autobahn Country Club, and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Rosenberg, at 20 years old, becomes the youngest champion in series history with the second highest average finish of any champion.
Chicago, IL - By all accounts, the 2024 GRIDLIFE Touring Cup season was one of the most competitive in the series’ six-year history. The 2024 season saw eleven unique winners, the most ever, with eleven vehicle manufacturers represented in the top 10 in points, and over 150 unique drivers participating. The driver that found the most success by season’s end, was 20-year old Matan Rosenberg, who won the driver’s title after winning ten races, finishing on the podium 23 times, and inside the top ten 30 times in just 32 starts. His #484 Chevrolet Corvette, this year adorned by a stylish American Le-Mans Corvette Racing inspired livery, was a consistent front-running car, save for two mechanical DNF’s at Lime Rock and Pitt Race.
Rosenberg’s season began at Circuit of the Americas, where he claimed a trio of podiums and a 5th in trail behind James Houghton, who scored a quartet of 2nds, and Luke McGrew, who performed the third weekend-win sweep in GLTC history, with four wins. After a solid round at Carolina Motorsports Park in April, Rosenberg won his first race of the season at GRIDLIFE Midwest Festival in June. The second race of the weekend at GingerMan Raceway highlighted Rosenberg’s commitment to fair racing, with a two-lap long battle alongside prior GLTC champion Eric Kutil, in his #82 Honda Civic Ferio. In perhaps one of the best displays of racecraft, the two vastly different cars ran door-to-door for nearly five miles, but in the end it was Rosenberg that scored his second win of the season. He won the weekend there by one point over Kutil.
Kutil and Rosenberg again fought at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, with Kutil edging ahead in the first race of the weekend before Luke McGrew and Rosenberg traded off for the next few race wins. While McGrew won the weekend in his #7 Chevrolet Corvette, Matan and Eric tied for second place, advantage Kutil, with qualifying points as the tiebreaker. At the Summer Apex Festival at Road America, Rosenberg’s weekend was over before it started, with an engine failure in practice leaving his car out of the mix at the National Park of Speed.
Matan returned to victory lane at Lime Rock, scoring a win in race 2, before following up with two wins at Autobahn Country Club in Joliet, Illinois. The third race of the weekend involved Rosenberg and the #212 Honda S2000 of Andy Smedegard, with the two finishing just 0.086 seconds apart, with Rosenberg edging out Smedegard in one of the closest finishes in series history. The weekend in Joliet scored Rosenberg his second weekend win of the year, with just two rounds of racing left to contend at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and Pittsburgh International Race Complex.
While Rosenberg’s season to this point had been a success, Luke McGrew remained the points leader, with nine wins to Rosenberg’s 6. With no plans for McGrew to race at Laguna Seca, Rosenberg needed to win three of the four races and finish top 4 in the other to take the points lead from McGrew. Though local driver Justin Ross gave Rosenberg everything he had, Rosenberg managed to score three wins and a second, easily winning his third weekend of the season, and positioning him as the leader of the standings heading into Pitt Race by just three points over Luke McGrew. This meant that whichever driver finished better at Pitt Race would likely win the title.
In a shocking turn of events, McGrew received an offer to buy his Corvette the week prior to the season finale, and with a desire to step back from wheel-to-wheel competition for next season, sold the car, leaving Matan with a much larger advantage to James Houghton and Eric Kutil, the only other drivers with a mathematical chance of defeating him. Eric Kutil fought frustrating mechanical issues throughout the weekend, leaving the battle up to James Houghton, driver of the #41 Acura TSX. Though Houghton won two races, a fifth and a fourth were not enough to earn enough points to beat Rosenberg, with Matan grabbing two thirds and a win. Despite a cut tire ending his final race, he retained enough points to win the title.
Matan Rosenberg, at 20 years old, becomes the youngest champion in series history, and scored 391 total race points across 32 starts. His average finish of 4.1 across those starts is second only to Tom O’Gorman, who had a 4.0 average finish across 40 starts in 2022.
CHICAGO (19 November 2024) – GRIDLIFE, the dynamic motorsport and music festival series, staged the final event of the 2024 season this weekend at Thunderhill Raceway Park in California.
The weekend marked the close of a record-breaking year for GRIDLIFE, as the motorsport organization set new marks with increased driver participation and a thriving paddock, expanded both the in-person and digital audience, growing its partnership portfolio, as well as continuing to grow its diverse offering of entertainment for the festival-style event gatherings through the year.
Along the way, GRIDLIFE competitors broke track records around the country as 30 different manufacturers found victory lane on the way to crowning eight season champions.
In just over a decade, GRIDLIFE has become one of the fastest-growing, youngest motorsports paddock globally, establishing itself as a leader in immersive, boundary-pushing events that feature a unique combination of motorsports competition, musical festivals and gatherings for automotive enthusiasts.
Staged across the country at some of the most iconic motorsports facilities in North America, the 2024 GRIDLIFE season featured a schedule of CLUB and FESTIVAL event weekends that captivated a predominantly young audience,73% of which falls between 18-34 years old.
“The 2024 season has been nothing short of monumental for GRIDLIFE,” said GRIDLIFE President and Founder Chris Stewart. “Our goal has always been to push the limits and create a one-of-a-kind environment where motorsport, music and community converge. This season’s record-breaking attendance and engagement are a testament to the passion of our fans, the talent of our drivers and the commitment of our partners who share our vision for the future of motorsport culture.”
GRIDLIFE Paddock Grows
With five unique festivals and nine adrenaline-charged race weekends, GRIDLIFE saw an astounding 2,951 on-track entries throughout the 2024 season, a 30% increase over 2023.
Representative of GRIDLIFE’s growth trend, 2024 saw a 34% increase in driver registration for its popular wheel-to-wheel sprint racing series, GRIDLIFE Touring Cup (GLTC). GLTC fields featured several races that were 60-drivers strong, and averaged an astounding 44 entries through the 40-race season spread across 10 weekends.
The significant increase in GLTC drivers in the paddock required the development of a revised format for some of the rounds, dividing the field into two groups based on qualifying times. This innovative format not only allowed more drivers to participate, but also maintained GRIDLIFE’s reputation for clean, competitive racing, reinforcing the organization’s mission of inclusion and accessibility. Even the season champion set a new record, as Matan Rosenberg became the youngest-ever GRIDLIFE Champion at just 20 years old.
GRIDLIFE’s TrackBattle TimeAttack continues to represent the largest field of competitors in North America, showcasing the largest field ever with 107 skilled drivers fiercely competing on the track at GRIDLIFE’s inaugural Summer Apex Festival, held at Road America last July.
Additionally, a large development in GRIDLIFE’s TrackBattle product in 2024 was the successful introduction of the Podium Sprint. Developed with spectator presentation in mind, this innovative format raises the intensity of competition. All competitors within their TrackBattle class must qualify in the top-five of their class before they race in a final showdown, the Podium Sprint, where each qualifier gets two solo flying laps to record their fastest time in a high-stakes presentation that puts everything on the line.
Introduced in 2024, the GRIDLIFE RUSH SR National Championship opened up thrilling new opportunities for participants and fans. Utilizing the RUSH SR, a lightweight and high-performance sports racer designed by RUSH Auto Works to be a driver's car from the wheels up, the category featured 160 entries over 20 races, with a 36-car average field size, far exceeding expectations for its inaugural season.
GRIDLIFE also set new benchmarks by being the exclusive organization that brings exhibition drifting to some of the most iconic road courses in the US. With seven rounds and 280 drivers, GRIDLIFE Drift enables talents like James Deane, Vaughn Gitten Jr, Chelsea DeNofa, Justin Pawlak, Chris Forsberg, Ryan Tuerck and dozens more the freedom to showcase their talents at full speed to the beat of a motorsports festival to the delight of thousands of fans.
Music Festivals Add to GRIDLIFE Paddock Vibes
GRIDLIFE’s first edition of the Music & Motorsport Festival began in 2014 at the Gingerman Raceway in South Haven, MI. The event created an atmosphere that transcended the traditional motorsport event structure and attracted a vibrant and engaged fan base of nearly a quarter million people since its inception. Since then, the GRIDLIFE Festival Tour has become a national series ranging from coast-to-coast.
GRIDLIFE’s 2024 season elevated the intersection of motorsports and music culture with a lineup of 60 live music performances. Headlined by iconic artists like multi-Grammy winners T-Pain and Deadmau5, GRIDLIFE also showcased the energy of dance music heavyweights Zeds Dead, Madeon & Liquid Stranger. With a diverse mix of legendary performers and cutting-edge talent, GRIDLIFE once again proved its commitment to creating unforgettable experiences where motorsports and music collide.
Partners and Content
Having provided broadcast-quality multicam streams on YouTube and Twitch with GRIDLIFE Live production, GRIDLIFE continued to find an eager audience and deliver on its mission to bring motorsport culture to new audiences with a high level of accessibility for fans both online and at live events with a production that rivals professional motorsport coverage.
In addition to record participation on the track, GRIDLIFE’s digital community soared, reaching a social media following of 339,000 fans and generating more than 65 million impressions.
Thanks to an impressive lineup of 17 season partners and a fast-expanding presence on social media, GRIDLIFE continues to grow its influence and connect with fans in fresh, authentic ways.
What’s next for 2025?
The memories of 2024 have yet to fade, and GRIDLIFE is eager to kick the 2025 season off as the series continues to grow with the goal of setting new standards in the motorsport and entertainment landscape, continuing its mission to offer young fans an unforgettable, multi-sensory experience that celebrates speed, music, culture and good vibes.
The 2025 schedule will be released in the upcoming weeks.
For more information on GRIDLIFE and its events, visit grid.life and follow @GRIDLIFE on social media for the latest updates.
About GRIDLIFE
GRIDLIFE is a motorsports and automotive lifestyle brand that has created a community of enthusiasts and participants across the United States. With a focus on inclusivity, accessibility, and a shared passion for cars and motorsports, GRIDLIFE hosts events that include live music, structured racing and open track time, bringing together a diverse community of people who share a love for all things automotive.
The 2024 GRIDLIFE Festival tour is supported by sponsors including Hyundai, NOS Energy Drink, Falken Tire, FCP Euro, Valvoline, Toyo Tires, Sunoco Race Fuels, Eibach, 303, Stabil, BC Racing, Hawk Brakes, Chase Bays and Race Treads who have partnered with GRIDLIFE to reach the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.
New race series, expanded weekend events, and return to Road Atlanta with Formula Drift highlight State of the Grid at PRI
Indianapolis, IN—(13 Dec. 2024) –GRIDLIFE is set to amplify its coast-to-coast motorsport and music festival experience next year, with its National Festival Tour growing from five to nine events in 2025. The fastest-growing, youngest motorsports event paddock in the world will also expand to a three-day weekend format next season.
The announcement, made on Friday from the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show, revealed a diverse lineup of events running from April to October, featuring returning fan-favorite venues, two brand-new festival event venues as well as enhanced racing and entertainment offerings.
The 2025 GRIDLIFE Festival Tour kicks off with GRIDLIFE South Carolina at Carolina Motorsports Park (April 11-13), followed by a highly anticipated return to the iconic Michelin Raceway at Road Atlanta in partnership with Formula Drift (May 9-11).
GRIDLIFE returns to where everything first started at Gingerman Raceway (June 6-8) ahead of a return to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (June 27-29). After a successful inaugural year in 2024, the GRIDLIFE Summer APEX continues at Road America (July 25-27).
Another iconic track will follow, with a fourth visit to Lime Rock Park (August 15-17). The new Festival Lineup will include Autobahn Country Club (September 12-14) ahead of a West Coast trip with the return to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (September 26-28), with Pittsburgh International Raceway (October 17-9) set for the 2025 season finale event.
"Expanding the festival lineup and moving to a three-day format allows us to deliver an even more immersive experience, combining car culture, racing and live music for enthusiasts nationwide,” said GRIDLIFE Co-Founder Chris Stewart. “And now we have a fantastic schedule that's well positioned from a date perspective. It’s really exciting to be able to add gravity to all aspects of the weekend, and make each one feel like a proper GRIDLIFE experience.
“We’ve spent a lot of time working to pinpoint and hone in on what our weekends should be like,” said Stewart. “There has been a three or four year evolution of continually trying to figure out how we service the growth of the community, while also building in some professional presentation and best-in-class club racing experience overall.
Updated Weekend Format and Racing Lineup
The expanded weekend format introduces GRIDLIFE’s newest racing class, GRIDLIFE Grand Touring (GLGT) featuring a 9:1 power to weight ratio, to give a place for retired professional race cars with performance to go up against the many V8 swapped garage builds. The series will run alongside established fan favorites GRIDLIFE Touring Cup (GLTC), GRIDLIFE RushSR Series, Track Battle Time Attack, and GRIDLIFE Drift.
High-Performance Driving Education (HPDE) will continue as part of GRIDLIFE’s core offerings but will now take place during standalone events, with its schedule set to be announced later.
“I think, with the previous years, where we had, big events and small events, and now we're able to dial in on a national nine-event series, a proper championship, and really bring those pro ideals forward, but still have that grassroots accessibility and that community,” said Stewart. "Separating out HPDE to its own day outside of these festival weekends will create a more compelling product for fans to watch and allows the drivers just cutting their teeth on the race track more track time and overall a better experience.”
Music, Motorsports and Memories
Beyond the track, GRIDLIFE remains dedicated to blending car culture with live entertainment, showcasing vehicles from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s in its Concours, hosting the GRIDLIFE Arcade and delivering show-stopping performances on its music stages.
After featuring artists like TPain, Deadmau5, Big Boi, Lupe Fiasco, and Subtronics, GRIDLIFE will continue to bring high energy line ups to the event in 2025, with the performers set to be announced in the coming months.
Each event will also be livestreamed on GRIDLIFE’s YouTube channel, with ticket sales—including single-day, weekend, and camping passes—opening soon atwww.grid.life.
The 2025 season holds considerable promise, as GRIDLIFE builds on a record-setting 2024 that drew more than 76,000 spectators to witness nearly 2,000 different drivers. The event livestreams generated over 65 million impressions.
With a bold new vision and an expanded lineup for 2025, GRIDLIFE aims to engage a projected 125,000 attendees, 2,500 drivers, and deliver over 80 million impressions, solidifying its place as a leader in music and motorsport festivals
2025 GRIDLIFE Festival Tour Schedule:
GRIDLIFE South Carolina – Carolina Motorsports Park, SC – April 11-13
GRIDLIFE Special Stage – Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta - May 9-10
GRIDLIFE Midwest Festival – Gingerman Raceway, MI – June 6-8
GRIDLIFE Mid-Ohio – Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, OH – June 27-29
GRIDLIFE Summer Apex – Road America, WI – July 25-27
GRIDLIFE Circuit Legends – Lime Rock Park, CT – August 15-17
GRIDLIFE Chicagoland – Autobahn Country Club, IL – September 12-14
GRIDLIFE Laguna Festival – WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, CA – September 26-28
GRIDLIFE Pitt Race – Pittsburgh International Raceway – October 17-19
About GRIDLIFE
GRIDLIFE is a motorsports and automotive lifestyle brand that has created a community of enthusiasts and participants across the United States. With a focus on inclusivity, accessibility, and a shared passion for cars and motorsports, GRIDLIFE hosts events that include live music, structured racing and open track time, bringing together a diverse community of people who share a love for all things automotive
New race series builds on the success of GRIDLIFE Touring Cup with similar event structure and ruleset.
Indianapolis, IN (16 Dec. 2024) – The fastest growing paddock in motorsports will continue to expand in 2025 as GRIDLIFE has announced the launch of the all new GRIDLIFE Grand Touring (GLGT) race series starting with the 2025 racing season.
The expanded weekend format introduces GRIDLIFE's newest racing class, GRIDLIFE Grand Touring (GLGT) featuring a 9:1 power to weight ratio, to give a place for retired professional race cars with performance to go up against the many V8 swapped garage builds. The series will run alongside established fan favorites GRIDLIFE Touring Cup (GLTC), GRIDLIFE RushSR Series, Track Battle Time Attack, and GRIDLIFE Drift.
Built on the same competition structure of the highly popular GRIDLIFE TC (GLTC) category, GLGT event weekends will feature practice, qualifying, and then four 20-minute races every event. The intense wheel-to-wheel competition makes for both outstanding viewing for fans as well as a tremendous experience for the racers.
The format has proven highly successful for GLTC, which averaged a remarkable 44 entries over the course of 10 race weekends in 2024.
“Ultimately, GRIDLIFE GT is a faster version of GLTC, with horsepower-to-weight that is closer to 9:1 vs 12.5:1 for GLTC,” said GRIDLIFE Co-Founder and Director of Motorsports Adam Jabaay. “It is wheel-to-wheel competition, with the same focus on clean driving and having fun that has been central to GLTC from the start. The event structure will also be the same format as GLTC, so it will not only be straightforward for our fans and drivers, but also compelling to racers who have not been to GRIDLIFE before, and that is super exciting for all of us.”
Utilizing a ruleset that includes a Table of Competition Balance based on weight, power, tire size and various aerodynamic factors, each GLGT event will feature a mini weekend championship that determines the Event Winner, runner-up and 3rd-place finisher.
When it comes to developing a competitive balance among a wide range of types of cars, GRIDLIFE will look to take lessons learned with GLTC and apply those to GLGT.
“We've gone from being pretty good on parity, to being really, really close on raw lap time—last year in some of our biggest events, the top 15 were separated in qualifying by less than three tenths,” said Jabaay. “Which is pretty crazy, and it feels like the ‘best of the best’ in the amateur world. And we’ve been working a lot to be able to do that with GLGT as well. We know there is some learning to do, but feel like we are starting with a very good formula and are really looking forward to seeing what kind of cars we have come join us.”
Announced as part of the annual GRIDLIFE State of the GRID at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show in Indianapolis, GRIDLIFE Grand Touring will kickoff at this year's Midwest Festival June 6th-8th and will compete at all remaining 2025 rounds.
Beyond the track, GRIDLIFE remains dedicated to blending car culture with live entertainment, showcasing vehicles from the ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s in its Concours, hosting the GRIDLIFE Arcade and delivering show-stopping performances on its music stages.
About GRIDLIFE
GRIDLIFE is a motorsports and automotive lifestyle brand that has created a community of enthusiasts and participants across the United States. With a focus on inclusivity, accessibility, and a shared passion for cars and motorsports, GRIDLIFE hosts events that include live music, structured racing and open track time, bringing together a diverse community of people who share a love for all things automotive.
The 2025 GRIDLIFE GOLD PASS program goes live Friday, Jan 10th at 11 AM EST! The GRIDLIFE GOLD PASS is your all-access ticket to an unforgettable 2025 season on the track. Lock in your track time by choosing a minimum of four (4) events to attend, and you're set for an incredible year with GRIDLIFE.
Gold Passes are available for TIME ATTACK, GLTC, GLGT and RUSH SR, with flexible payment plans to help you stay on budget while finishing your build.
The 2025 GRIDLIFE season features 9 Championship rounds, with 7 events streamed live to bring the excitement straight to your screen. Don't miss your chance to be part of the most action-packed season yet!
2025 GOLD PASS Presale Schedule
Presale access is automatically granted based on your TorkHub-registered email—no passwords or presale codes required. Ensure your email is up-to-date to secure access during your group’s presale time.
Front Runners: (2024 Top 5 Drivers) January 9th, 11:00 AM EST
Members: (GRIDLIFE Members) January 9th, 1:00 PM EST
Loyalty (2024 Gold Pass Holders): January 10th, 11:00 AM EST
Public Sale: (Everyone Else) January 10th, 1:00 PM EST
Don’t miss your chance to lock in your GOLD PASS during these priority windows!
All competition drivers must hold the required licensing for their respective disciplines (e.g., GLTC, TrackBattle, RUSH SR, or GLGT). Appropriate licensing must be acquired or applied for and approved in provisional status no later than 30 days prior to participation.
No refunds will be issued for events that a driver is unable to attend. Transfers of competition products (GLTC, TrackBattle, RUSH SR, or GLGT) must be approved by GRIDLIFE staff.
Transfers must be made no later than 72 hours prior to driver gates. Transfers requested later than 72 hours prior to driver gates will incur a $100 transfer fee.
Event-to-event transfers are subject to availability and must be approved by GRIDLIFE staff. If the new event has a higher entry fee, drivers will be responsible for paying the difference in fees.
Gold Pass benefits are non-transferable.
All Gold Pass benefits must be used within the purchased calendar year.
A GRIDLIFE Competition License is required for ALL drivers competing in our events. (Yes drifters, even you) Here’s everything you need to know to secure your spot on the starting grid:
Endorsements
If you’re participating in more than one discipline, you only need one license but will need to choose multiple endorsements.
Time Attack ONLY (non-wheel to wheel)
All TrackBattle Classes
Wheel-to-wheel
Rush SR
Rush SRX
GLTC
GLGT
**approved wheel to wheel endorsements automatically are approved for all Track Battle classes
Drift
Full-Course Drift
**not required for Skid Pad/Kart Track
In order to purchase a Full Course Drift ticket you must hold an approved Competition License
Key Details
Application Deadlines
Apply at least 30 days before your first event. The vetting process can be extensive and our team needs adequate time to evaluate driver qualifications.
Applications go live February 7th, 2025.
An approved competition license is valid for one (1) year from purchase date
Who needs to apply?
ALL DRIVERS that want to compete at GRIDLIFE and full course Drift drivers.
NOTE: Drift drivers participating only on Skid Pad/Kart Track (CMP, Summer Apex, Pitt Race) need not apply.
How to Apply
Fill out the online application form. All drivers, new and existing, must complete the application.
Include any required documentation or experience details.
Submit your application at least 30 days before your event.
Late Applications
Missed the deadline? Applications are due 30 days before your first event. Late applications will still be accepted, but a $100.00 administration fee will apply
Application Guidelines
ALL DRIVERS: Drivers competing in TrackBattle, GRIDLIFE wheel-to-wheel (GLTC, GLGT, Rush SR), and Full-Course Drift must apply for a GRIDLIFE Competition License. Applications must be submitted no later than 30 days prior to your first event. Please note: Skidpad/Kart Track Drift drivers do not need to hold a competition license to drive.
Qualification Requirements
Drivers with Existing Competition Licenses: If you hold a valid competition license (in good standing) from another established motorsports organization, you will likely qualify for a provisional GRIDLIFE Competition License.
Advanced Drivers: Drivers with significant track time in an Advanced level of HPDE (High-Performance Driver Education) environment may apply for a provisional Time Attack License.
Non-Licensed Drivers: Applications from non-licensed drivers will be reviewed by the GRIDLIFE competition licensing team. Licensing decisions may take up to 15 days from submission.
What happens if I do not get approved?
Any refund or entry transfer request will be handled on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of GRIDLIFE staff.
Driver entries may be transferable, but Licenses are non-transferable.
Application Fee
$125 GRIDLIFE Members
$200 Non-Members
An approved competition license is valid for one (1) year from purchase date
All competition drivers must hold the required licensing for their respective disciplines (e.g., GLTC, TrackBattle, RUSH SR, or GLGT). Appropriate licensing must be acquired or applied for and approved in provisional status no later than 30 days prior to participation.
No refunds will be issued for events that a driver is unable to attend. Transfers of competition products (GLTC, TrackBattle, RUSH SR, or GLGT) must be approved by GRIDLIFE staff.
Transfers must be made no later than 72 hours prior to driver gates. Transfers requested later than 72 hours prior to driver gates will incur a $100 transfer fee.
Event-to-event transfers are subject to availability and must be approved by GRIDLIFE staff. If the new event has a higher entry fee, drivers will be responsible for paying the difference in fees.
Gold Pass benefits are non-transferable.
All Gold Pass benefits must be used within the purchased calendar year.
March 20, 2025 – GRIDLIFE is proud to announce Queen City Overland as the Official Overland Experience Partner for the 2025 GRIDLIFE South Carolina Festival, taking place April 11-13 at Carolina Motorsports Park.
Known for their passion for the overlanding community and their commitment to hospitality, Queen City Overland will curate an immersive Overland Experience, showcasing the best of overland vehicles, products, and culture throughout the festival weekend.
Having attended the last two years of GRIDLIFE South Carolina, Queen City Overland has become a staple of the event, creating a welcoming atmosphere with food, music, games, and good vibes for all attendees. This year, GRIDLIFE is making it official, partnering with them to expand their presence and deliver an even bigger and better camping experience to attendees all weekend.
"Tyler and the gang at Queen City Overland have always shown up as the unofficial hosts of the GRIDLIFE South Carolina event. This year we're looking to make it official and go big. Personally, I am looking forward to some late-night fireside conversation with the crew!" — Shawn Fenton, GRIDLIFE
Located in the GRIDLIFE South Carolina campground, the Queen City Overland Experience will feature:
A showcase of top-tier Overland vehicles from across the region
Overland gear & product displays from leading brands
Campfire lounges & late-night hangouts
Games, music, and community-driven fun all weekend long
Fireside S’mores Roast on Saturday Night (10 PM – Midnight)
Additionally, Queen City Overland will be giving away tickets to the best examples of Overland builds through their social channels, so be sure to follow@queencityoverland for details.
“Epic cars, camping, great people, live music, the beautiful South Carolina spring weather and the smell of burning rubber…. What better way to kick off the season than GRIDLIFE! Having the opportunity to be a part of an event where people are able to follow their passions and feed their adrenaline addiction is priceless. When you’re ready to put it in cruise control, come kick back and relax with the Q.C.O. crew and enjoy some music, s’mores and fire side chats.”
— Tyler von Seggern, Queen City Overland
The 2025 GRIDLIFE South Carolina Festival is set to be an unforgettable weekend of racing, music, car culture, and now, an expanded Overland Experience. Whether you’re an overlanding enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and welcoming space to hang out, Queen City Overland has you covered.
Get your tickets atwww.grid.life and be part of the ultimate camping experience!
About GRIDLIFE
GRIDLIFE is a motorsports and lifestyle brand that blends high-performance racing, car culture, and music festivals into an immersive experience. From grassroots racing to professional competition, GRIDLIFE events celebrate the passion of automotive enthusiasts nationwide.
Follow Queen City Overland for Ticket Giveaways & More:
Multi-year title partnership for hugely popular touring car series
CHICAGO (19 March 2025) –GRIDLIFE is proud to announce that Eibach, a global leader in high-performance suspension systems, has signed a multi-year agreement as the title partner for the GRIDLIFE Touring Cup (GLTC).
The series will be known as the Eibach GLTC Championship, marking a significant partnership that strengthens the future of grassroots motorsports and brings increased support to one of North America’s most competitive touring car series.
Since its inception, Eibach GLTC has redefined what makes a premier grassroots racing series, offering some of the most competitive and exciting wheel-to-wheel action in the country. With its single-class format and unique power-to-weight balance system, the series allows a wide variety of chassis to compete on equal footing.
The formula has resulted in thrilling, unpredictable racing where driver skill takes center stage. Eibach GLTC races are known for their close finishes, strategic battles and deep fields of talented drivers, making it one of the most dynamic and engaging forms of racing in the United States today.
“GLTC is part of the beating heart of racing, and under most of the cars in the field is the beating heart of suspension, Eibach,” said Adam Jabaay, VP of Motorsport/Co-Founder of GRIDLIFE. “The team and I are thrilled to welcome our longtime friends at Eibach as the title sponsor of the GLTC championship. Having toured their California facility almost a decade ago, and ran their stuff forever, I’ve been a fan. It's humbling to have them as fans and supporters of our passion project, GLTC."
The partnership will see Eibach extensively embedded within the GRIDLIFE community and will include a significant activation presence at multiple events throughout the season. The company will offer on-site technical support, product showcases and exclusive insights into their suspension solutions from race cars to tow vehicles. This engagement will allow drivers and teams to experience firsthand how Eibach’s precision-engineered products can enhance their race cars’ consistency, balance and control for that competitive edge.
“Eibach GLTC embodies the spirit of grassroots racing that Eibach has proudly supported for decades,” said Mark Krumme, Head of Marketing at Eibach. “The tight competition, passionate driver base and commitment to fair, balanced racing align perfectly with our values. We’ve long awaited this opportunity and are honored to be part of the GLTC championship. We look forward to taking it to the next level in supporting the drivers and fans who make it so special.”
The Eibach GLTC Championship will make its official debut under its new title at the GRIDLIFE season opener, GRIDLIFE South Carolina, at Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC, April 11 - 13. The weekend will set the stage for another year of intense battles, ultra-close margins and the most exciting grassroots racing in North America.
2025 GRIDLIFE Championship Series Schedule
The Eibach GLTC Championship will be a headline attraction at GRIDLIFE’s marquee motorsports festivals, which combine top-tier racing with a unique fusion of car culture, music and immersive fan experiences.
Each event will showcase the very best in grassroots motorsports, with the Eibach GLTC Championship at the center of the action. In addition to GLTC, GRIDLIFE festivals feature Time Attack competitions, drifting exhibitions, track-day experiences and high-energy music performances, creating an unparalleled motorsports culture event for racers and fans.
For more information on the Eibach GLTC Championship and the full GRIDLIFE season schedule, visit grid.life.
About GRIDLIFE
Founded in 2014, GRIDLIFE has redefined the motorsports landscape by combining grassroots racing, car culture, and music into a series of immersive festival-style events. By fostering an inclusive and accessible racing environment, GRIDLIFE has grown into one of the most unique and dynamic motorsports communities in North America. With a focus on competition, community, and culture, GRIDLIFE events attract thousands of racers, fans, and automotive enthusiasts every year.
About Eibach
Eibach is a globally recognized leader in high-performance suspension technology, producing precision-engineered springs, dampers, and stabilizers for motorsports, street performance, and OEM applications. With a rich legacy in professional racing, Eibach products are trusted by top teams and grassroots competitors alike for their precision, durability, and performance-enhancing capabilities. Whether on the track or the street, Eibach is dedicated to delivering the highest quality suspension solutions for ultimate handling and control.
CHICAGO (25 March 2025)- Following a record-setting 2024 season, the countdown is on for the 2025 launch of GRIDLIFE. With events that focus on fan and participant experience highlighted by music, motorsports and car culture, the 12th season of GRIDLIFE is poised to continue to attract a growing fan base and high-profile drivers.
More than just a series, GRIDLIFE has carved out a distinct niche at the intersection of high-performance racing, car culture and music festival energy. As it heads into its 12th season, GRIDLIFE continues to push the boundaries of the motorsport experience, creating an unforgettable, unique atmosphere for competitors, spectators, vendors and partners.
Staged within a 90-minute drive of Charlotte, Columbia, Sumter and Fayetteville, Carolina Motorsports Park will host the GRIDLIFE season opener April 11-13. The weekend will feature GRIDLIFE Drift, GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack, the Eibach GLTC Championship, GRIDLIFE RUSH Series and the Aftergrid Music Experience Festival with Emo Nite playing a Grave Rave set on Saturday, April 12. (link to tickets)
The 2024 season was nothing short of remarkable, as GRIDLIFE competitors broke track records at events staged around the country, with 30 different manufacturers visiting victory lane. With an expanded nine-event schedule that features stops at tracks like WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, Road America, as well as a Special Stage with Formula Drift at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, the 2025 season will see new event formats, increased paddock-focused partnerships and a lineup of top-tier drivers as well as musical acts.
With its expanded nine-event national schedule and a move to three-day festival weekends, GRIDLIFE is evolving into more than just a motorsport series; it is becoming a fully immersive cultural experience that resonates with both fans and competitors.
In June, the organization will launch the GRIDLIFE Grand Touring (GLGT) series, adding a new competitive format to the mix and further enriching the weekend’s lineup. The introduction of the GLGT race series adds an exciting new dimension to the event lineup, introducing the fastest category of competition in the GRIDLIFE family.
As a testament to the increasing popularity of grassroots motorsport, Time Attack has already sold out for the season, while the Eibach GLTC Championship is quickly approaching full capacity.
GRIDLIFE saw nearly 2,000 on-track entries throughout the 2024 season, a 30% increase over 2023. With entries filling up and oversubscribed in some groups, 2025 is on pace for another record-breaking competition season. Entries for GLGT, GRIDLIFE Drift and GRIDLIFE RUSH Series are still being accepted at some rounds.
Beyond the track, the surge in participation is mirrored by a 50% YoY increase in sponsorship involvement ahead of the 2025 season, underscoring the series’ expanding influence and its ability to attract significant industry support. This increased backing allows GRIDLIFE to enhance infrastructure, resources and overall event experiences, ensuring that its continued growth remains both sustainable and impactful.
“The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in GRIDLIFE history,” said Chris Stewart. “We’re taking everything we’ve learned over the past decade to shape the future of GRIDLIFE. With a renewed focus on delivering consistency for drivers and enhancing attendee offerings, this year is all about refining every detail and setting a strong foundation for the next decade.”
In addition to on-track excitement, GRIDLIFE’s renowned festival atmosphere will once again come alive with live music performances, vendor showcases, interactive experiences and a vibrant community of automotive enthusiasts. The fusion of motorsports and music remains a cornerstone of the GRIDLIFE experience.
GRIDLIFE’s 2024 season featured the intersection of motorsports and music culture with a lineup of 60 live music performances. Headlined by iconic artists like multi-Grammy winners T-Pain and Deadmau5, GRIDLIFE also showcased the energy of dance music heavyweights Zeds Dead, Madeon & Liquid Stranger. The 2025 festival season is set to be even bigger with the return of Sullivan King and the debut of rising trio Levity at Midwest Festival.
Tickets for the 2025 GRIDLIFE season are available at www.grid.life, with more detailed event schedules and special announcements to be revealed in the coming weeks. For the latest series updates follow @gridlifeofficial on social media.
March 10, 2025 – GRIDLIFE, the premier motorsports festival series, is excited to partner with Turn 14 Distribution for the 2025 season, introducing the Turn 14 Partner Lounge at select GRIDLIFE events. This new addition will enhance the festival experience by providing fans, racers, and industry professionals with a dedicated space to connect, recharge, and take in the action like never before.
As one of the most dynamic forces in the automotive performance industry, Turn 14 Distribution is well known for driving the performance aftermarket with emerging technology, efficient operations, and authentic partnerships.. This partnership brings Turn 14 directly into the heart of the GRIDLIFE community, offering an immersive experience for both competitors and spectators throughout the 2025 season.
What is the Turn 14 Partner Lounge?
The Turn 14 Partner Lounge will be an interactive, trackside gathering space designed to enhance the GRIDLIFE experience. Key features include:
Premium viewing areas – Get up close to the on-track action with prime sightlines to the most exciting race moments.
Hospitality & refreshments – A comfortable space to refuel and relax between sessions.
Networking opportunities – A hub for racers, partners, and industry leaders to connect in an exciting motorsports setting.
Brand activations & experiences – Learn more about Turn 14’s impact on the automotive aftermarket and discover the latest in performance technology.
"Turn 14 Distribution is an incredible addition to the GRIDLIFE family, and we’re thrilled to have them elevating our events in 2025," said Chris Stewart, President & Founder of GRIDLIFE. “The Turn 14 Partner Lounge will create a welcoming space where the Turn 14 customers in the GRIDLIFE community can come together and experience the best of motorsports culture. It’s another step in making GRIDLIFE not just a racing series, but a destination for enthusiasts.”
Turn 14 Distribution has been a leader in the performance parts distribution space, offering a massive portfolio of aftermarket brands and supporting the enthusiast community at every level. Their partnership with GRIDLIFE reinforces their investment in grassroots motorsports, making them an integral part of the growing motorsports festival scene.
"GRIDLIFE is redefining what a motorsports event can be, and we’re excited to be a part of it," said Ricky Nietubicz, Marketing Manager for Turn 14 Distribution. “The Turn 14 Partner Lounge will add another layer to the GRIDLIFE experience, providing a great place for Turn 14 dealers to engage with the action in a whole new way. We’re proud to support this incredible community and look forward to an amazing season.”
Find the Turn 14 Partner Lounge at These 2025 GRIDLIFE Events
GRIDLIFE South Carolina – Carolina Motorsports Park, SC – April 11-13
GRIDLIFE Special Stage – Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, GA – May 9-10
GRIDLIFE Midwest Festival – Gingerman Raceway, MI – June 6-8
GRIDLIFE Mid-Ohio – Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, OH – June 27-29
GRIDLIFE Summer Apex – Road America, WI – July 25-27
GRIDLIFE Circuit Legends – Lime Rock Park, CT – August 15-17
GRIDLIFE Chicagoland – Autobahn Country Club, IL – September 12-14
GRIDLIFE Laguna Festival – WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, CA – September 26-28
GRIDLIFE Pitt Race – Pittsburgh International Race Complex, PA – October 17-19
With a season packed full of high-intensity racing, music, and motorsports culture, the Turn 14 Partner Lounge will offer a new way for fans and partners to experience GRIDLIFE. Expect exclusive content, special guest appearances, and an inside look at the future of performance parts innovation.
Experience the Future of Automotive Culture
As GRIDLIFE continues to push the boundaries of motorsports and festival culture, the partnership with Turn 14 Distribution underscores a shared commitment to innovation, community, and unforgettable experiences. The Turn 14 Partner Lounge will be more than just a hospitality area—it will be a living, breathing extension of the motorsports lifestyle.
For more information and partnership opportunities, visitwww.grid.life or follow @GRIDLIFEOFFICIAL on social media.
New partnership launches Flat Four Showdown competition and brings rally icon Bucky Lasek to GRIDLIFE Time Attack.
CHICAGO (27 MARCH 2025) — GRIDLIFE, the premier motorsports and music festival tour in North America, today announced that Subimods, the leading destination for Aftermarket performance parts and accessories, has joined as an official season partner for the 2025 GRIDLIFE Tour. The partnership marks Subimods’ most significant national motorsports initiative to date, aimed at expanding the presence of the enthusiast community on and off the track.
As part of the partnership, Subimods will be present at every GRIDLIFE event this season with full-scale paddock activations, a fleet of BRZ drift cars, and competition entries across multiple disciplines. Rallycross legend and X Games gold medalist Bucky Lasek will pilot the Subimods-built WRX Time Attack car in GRIDLIFE’s TrackBattle series, showcasing what the brand is capable of at a national level!
In addition to on-track and paddock activations, the partnership also introduces the Subimods Subaru Car Corral, a featured section within the GRIDLIFE Car Showcase. Appearing at all 2025 Festival Tour stops, the Subimods Corral will spotlight a mix of classic and modern Subaru builds, offering fans the opportunity to connect with fellow enthusiasts, explore standout vehicles, and celebrate Subaru culture up close.
In a move that further deepens its commitment to the community, Subimods is launching the Flat Four Showdown, a dedicated Subaru-only competition class within GRIDLIFE’s broader racing program. The new class celebrates the performance potential of the signature flat-four engine platform and gives drivers an opportunity to compete at some of the country’s most iconic tracks.
“Partnering with GRIDLIFE is a natural extension of what Subimods has always stood for—community, competition, and the love of everything Subaru,” said Nick Nazzaro, Founder of Subimods. “We’re here to not only show what our brand is capable of on and off the track, but to also give enthusiasts a platform they’ve never had before. The Flat Four Showdown is built by and for this community, and we can’t wait to see it come to life at GRIDLIFE.”
GRIDLIFE CEO Michael Hurczyn added:
“We’re beyond excited to have Subimods onboard for 2025. Their passion for Subaru performance and community aligns perfectly with the GRIDLIFE mission. Between the Flat Four Showdown, Bucky on track, and the energy they’ll bring to the paddock, Subaru fans are going to have a lot to be excited about this season.”
The GRIDLIFE 2025 Tour kicks off April 11–13 with GRIDLIFE South Carolina at Carolina Motorsports Park and includes nine destination events culminating with GRIDLIFE Pitt Race in October. Subimods will have a presence at each stop, with Flat Four Showdown competition rounds running throughout the season.
More information about the Flat Four Showdown coming soon. For tickets and the full 2025 GRIDLIFE event schedule, visit:www.grid.life
About Subimods Subimods is the trusted source for aftermarket performance parts and accessories, offering a wide selection of high-quality components to enthusiasts across the U.S. Headquartered in Bloomfield, Connecticut, Subimods supports grassroots motorsports and Subaru culture through direct community involvement, motorsports activations, and industry leading customer support.. Learn more atwww.subimods.com.
About GRIDLIFE Founded in 2013, GRIDLIFE is the leading motorsports lifestyle brand in North America, combining high-performance racing with music festival energy. GRIDLIFE events feature Time Attack, drifting, and HPDE racing alongside live concerts and immersive fan experiences. GRIDLIFE creates a vibrant, inclusive environment where car culture comes alive.
CHICAGO, IL (1 APRIL 2025) — GRIDLIFE is proud to announce the continuation of its longstanding partnership with FCP Euro, marking the eighth consecutive year of collaboration between the two powerhouse brands in motorsport and automotive culture. Building on shared values of community, enthusiast engagement, and performance excellence, the 2025 season introduces exciting new touchpoints for fans and drivers alike.
This year, FCP Euro will be present at select GRIDLIFE festivals across the country, bringing high-energy brand activations, fan engagement opportunities, and their latest fleet of demo vehicles—including a four-seat drift taxi project. This bold and unexpected build exemplifies the spirit of fun and innovation that has long defined the FCP Euro brand and its presence at GRIDLIFE events.
A major highlight for the 2025 season is the evolution of the GRIDLIFE Showcase into the GRIDLIFE Motoring Meet Presented by FCP Euro. Inspired by the success of FCP Euro's own Sunday Motoring Meet series held around the country at locations such as Lime Rock Park and their Mesa, AZ office, this new activation will be a cornerstone of the GRIDLFIE festival experience.
“The Motoring Meet isn’t just about showing cars—it’s about creating a space where enthusiasts of all makes and models can come together, connect, and share their passion in the heart of our festivals,” said Chris Stewart, President of GRIDLIFE. “FCP Euro’s commitment to building inclusive, community-driven events makes them the perfect partner to bring this vision to life.”
The GRIDLIFE Motoring Meet Presented by FCP Euro will take place at seven GRIDLIFE events throughout the 2025 season, including:
South Carolina Festival – April 11-13 | Carolina Motorsports Park, SC
Midwest Festival – June 6-8 | Gingerman Raceway, MI
Summer Apex Festival – July 25-27 | Road America, WI
Circuit Legends – August 15-17 | Lime Rock Park, CT
Chicagoland – September 12-14 | Autobahn Country Club, IL
Laguna Festival – September 26-28 | WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, CA
Pitt Race – October 17-19 | Pittsburgh International Race Complex, PA
The Motoring Meet invites enthusiasts to register their rides and showcase them in premium festival locations. Registration includes full weekend admission and premier parking at the center of the action.
To register your vehicle for the first Motoring Meet of the 2025 season at GRIDLIFE South Carolina, visitwww.grid.life/south-carolina.
“From our humble Sunday morning gatherings to anchoring a major national festival series, it’s incredible to see how the community has grown,” said Michael Callaghan, Head of Brand Marketing at FCP Euro. “We’re excited to welcome fans across the country into the FCP Euro experience, trackside and beyond.”
Together, GRIDLIFE and FCP Euro continue reimagining what automotive culture can look like—uniting motorsports, music, and enthusiast communities under one banner.
About FCP Euro
With locations in Milford, CT, and Mesa, AZ, FCP Euro is an online retailer of Genuine, OE, and OEM European auto parts specializing in BMW, Volvo, Audi, VW, Mercedes, and Porsche. Since 1986, FCP Euro has become widely recognized by enthusiasts in the community as their preferred source for parts. With a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee, Hassle-Free Returns, and Free Shipping, FCP Euro has continuously challenged and advanced the standards of quality, service, and technology in the automotive aftermarket. Visit www.fcpeuro.com or @fcpeuro on social media for more information.
About GRIDLIFE
Founded in 2013, GRIDLIFE is the leading motorsports lifestyle brand in North America, combining high-performance racing with music festival energy. GRIDLIFE events feature Time Attack, drifting, and HPDE racing alongside live concerts and immersive fan experiences. GRIDLIFE creates a vibrant, inclusive environment where car culture comes alive.
Kershaw, SC - GRIDLIFE returns to competition next weekend at Carolina Motorsports Park April 11-13, marking its first event of the year and return to the south for the third consecutive year. With a star-studded lineup in the newly renamed GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, a nearly 40-car field in the Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship, and a packed GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack field, the competition will be fierce from round one. Attendees will also be treated to the return of GRIDLIFE Drift, with cars tackling the full course at Carolina Motorsports Park, and navigating the technical karting track in both single and tandem runs. The on-track action will extend for a full three days this year, with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday all featuring racing, drift, and time attack.
GRIDLIFE RUSH Series Returns with New Name & Big Names
The GRIDLIFE RUSH Series has changed names for 2025, dropping the “SR” nomenclature associated with its RUSH SR sports racer, as the series gains an additional model - the SRX - making the RUSH Series GRIDLIFE’s first multiclass racing series. The light-weight, high performance racecar has skyrocketed in popularity in grassroots racing, with field sizes of 25 or more cars at nearly every GRIDLIFE event last season.
YouTube superstars TJ Hunt, Grant Anderson, and Evan Shanks are entered for the South Carolina event and will race wheel-to-wheel with series regulars like Ryan Leach and Jason Oehler. James French is also entered for competition, notable for his extensive experience racing in the American Le Mans Series and IMSA WeatherTech Championships in prototype machinery. The provisional entry list for GRIDLIFE South Carolina features nearly 30 cars for the GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, which will race four times during the weekend.
Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship Rockets into Seventh Season
Once the “new series” on the block, the Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship kicks off its seventh season as GRIDLIFE’s original wheel-to-wheel racing series. Armed with a new logo and name courtesy of support from Eibach, a field of 36 drivers is set to take the green flag four times throughout the weekend. Amongst the competitors is 2020 champion Eric Kutil, returning alongside reigning champion Matan Rosenberg. Other familiar names set to race in South Carolina include James Cathers, Eric Magnussen and teammate duo Thomas Lathrop and Carlos Mendez.
Though the field is healthy with returning drivers, a strong influx of new drivers is present on the entry list too, with Austin Hill, Raul Iriarte, Andrew Nabb, and plenty more. The rookie field includes some drivers from the GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack championship. Those making the jump this season to wheel-to-wheel racing include Christian Aranha and Alan Newsome. The Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship races at every event this season and is poised to continue delivering some of the best grassroots racing in the country.
GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Returns with Modified Competition Format
GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack, a race against the clock in eight different competition classes, is back in 2025 with a field of nearly 90 drivers and cars. Drivers will compete in a slightly different format than previous years, blended between the Podium Sprint qualifying format and the “Classic TrackBattle” heats. Competitors will be sorted into groups by pace, irrespective of their class, and then run seven heats. Then, the top five drivers from each class will run the Podium Sprint, a last-chance shootout-style session on Sunday where the podium is determined.
Many drivers return with the same weaponry as previous seasons - Mario Mirone, Evan McLaren, Stan Fayngold, Kevin Vue and Jerami Bailey are set to battle in Falken Club TR, while Kal Fortner, Dayton DelaHoussaye, and Devin Hoffman are back in Street Mod competition. The renamed Club SC category features reigning champion Chris Rice, alongside Lennon Radcliffe and David Best.
Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup competitors Luke McGrew and Austin Hertel will return to their GRIDLIFE TrackBattle roots at Carolina Motorsports Park, both armed with brand new Chevrolet Corvette C8s for time attack competition. While Austin Hertel is expected to return to wheel-to-wheel competition in addition to efforts in TrackBattle, Luke McGrew will only compete in a limited-time attack campaign in 2025.
The packed field of GRIDLIFE TrackBattle entrants will offer plenty for fans to watch in South Carolina alongside the wheel-to-wheel racing and drifting.
GRIDLIFE Drift Takes on Full Course, Kart Circuit
GRIDLIFE Drift has long been a staple entertainment offering at events, and for a third year, it will highlight the action on the track and in the paddock, with both full course drift and a kart circuit configuration. The full course layout will see drifters take on the 2.3-mile, 14-corner layout at full speed, while the kart course layout will offer a tighter, more technical challenge for drivers in South Carolina. In addition to his entry in the GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, Grant Anderson will bring out his E36 BMW for drift action, alongside Cole Richards, Justin Pawlak, Hert, and Lee Yearwood, amongst others. Fans trackside and in the paddock will get to see the full course light up with tire smoke seven times throughout the weekend, with the kart track running all day.
Highlighting GRIDLIFE Drift’s entertainment is the reintroduction of Night Shift Drift on Friday and Saturday night, drift sessions into the darkness beginning at 7:30 PM each night. This spectacle was first introduced at the GRIDLIFE Alpine Horizon Festival and is now back as part of GRIDLIFE South Carolina’s attractions.
GRIDLIFE’s on-track schedule is packed for its first event of the season; fans on site will enjoy cars on course from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Attendees can also roam the open paddock, the arcade, and watch acts on the music stage from Jake Panda, JEFE, Emo Nite, and more. The on-track action will be streamed live Friday through Sunday via GRIDLIFE’s Twitch and YouTube channels, starting at 4:00 PM ET on Friday. Tickets are still available for spectators on the GRIDLIFE South Carolina site.
Eric Kutil leads the field into turn one at Carolina Motorsports Park in Eibach GLTC Race 3.
Kershaw, SC - GRIDLIFE’s first event of 2025 in Kershaw, South Carolina, at Carolina Motorsports Park, featured packed fields in each competition category and set the stage for incoming battles this season. With 90 cars registered in TrackBattle Time Attack, over two dozen in the rebranded GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, a 30+ car field in the Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship, and a healthy grid of drift cars, there was plenty for spectators to see at the track and on the live broadcast.
Now in collaboration with Florida-based Project Priime, the GRIDLIFE Live broadcast featured an all-new graphics package, additional cameras, more advanced replay capabilities, a live roaming reporter camera, and aerial coverage. Tens of thousands tuned in for the three-day broadcast, which covered Eibach GLTC, TrackBattle Time Attack, the GRIDLIFE RUSH Series and GRIDLIFE Drift action from Friday afternoon onward. A central focus for viewers was an enhanced layout for the TrackBattle Time Attack coverage to assist viewers in understanding the complexities of TrackBattle’s classes and sort lap times into class-specific chunks. Additional enhancements to GRIDLIFE’s live coverage will continue to roll out throughout 2025.
Eric Kutil Dominates in Eibach GLTC
2020 Eibach GLTC champion Eric Kutil returned to winning form at GRIDLIFE South Carolina, winning three of the four races, just being edged out by reigning champion Matan Rosenberg, whose #484 Chevrolet Corvette now adorns a striking Falken Tire and Eibach livery. Kutil’s car was 125 pounds lighter than it was in 2024, while Rosenberg’s was nearly 300 pounds heavier than his 2024 setup. The two cars demonstrated in spectacular fashion the opposite extremes of the rulebook, but raced on equal footing on Sunday morning. While Kutil dominated the first three races, winning by over 15 seconds in races 2 and 3, Rosenberg kept Kutil at bay just long enough to secure his first victory of 2025 by just a car length above Kutil’s #82 Honda Civic.
The racing also highlighted a notable uptick in performance from the #184 of Eric Jensen, whose reliability modifications to his LS-swapped Scion FR-S allowed him to attack the tall curbs of Carolina Motorsports Park. Despite a spin in race 3, Jensen still managed to snag a podium in one race and finished 7th in the weekend standings. While Eric Kutil and Matan Rosenberg topped the podium, Eric Magnussen stood on the third step, earning 55 points in his gold #330 BMW M3. Gary Wimble and James Cathers rounded out a competitive top 5 in South Carolina. Spectators were magnetized to Alan Newsome’s #13 Merkur XR4TI, an Eibach GLTC build with a real Sierra Cosworth body - but mechanical issues would sideline the car after the first race of the weekend.
GRIDLIFE RUSH Series Thrills Fans with Star Power, Last Lap Passes
Rebranded as simply the “GRIDLIFE RUSH Series” (formerly the GRIDLIFE RUSH SR Series), 25 RUSH SR machines took the green flag on Friday for the first of four races in the first round of 2025. Reigning TrackBattle Street GT champion Andy Voelkel took the lead early, but damp conditions on track forced a tire management battle on the softer wet-weather tires. Ryan Leach, in his #56 RUSH SR, caught and passed the #34 of Voelkel on the final lap of the race, stealing a win with just seconds to go. Voelkel finished 2nd, followed by Nico Bratz, a returning competitor from 2024.
The podium in the following three races remained exactly the same, with Leach sweeping the weekend. Voelkel and Bratz were unable to capture or retain the lead, despite opportunities with restarts following full-course yellows. YouTube stars TJ Hunt, Evan Shanks, and Grant Anderson battled fiercely on track in races 2 and 3, with Hunt and Shanks getting particularly aggressive in a hip and shoulder fight. Nate Hamilton’s #144 RUSH SR spun backwards at turn 4 after light contact in race 3, relegating him to 23rd - though he would rebound to 8th in race 4 and finish ninth in weekend points.
The field featured over two dozen RUSH SR cars, and with a planned introduction for the new RUSH SRX later in the year, the racing will expand to a multi-class format. The RUSH SRX is equipped with several additional systems, including a Push-to-Pass system, and has nearly 300 horsepower compared to the RUSH SR at 150. Learn more about the RUSH SRX here.
GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Heats Up with Upsets in Podium Sprint
After seven rounds of qualifying heats in GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack, the top 5 drivers from each of TrackBattles seven classes lined up for Podium Sprint on Sunday afternoon. In Club SC, reigning champion Chris Rice reset the track record with a 1:55.699 in his #91 Honda Fit. Ryan Mukherjee and Sam Deuling also scored podiums in their Honda Fits. Lennon Radcliffe had set a faster time and was set to be the top seed in Podium Sprint, but a rules violation reset his times and his #116 Toyota Corolla failed to qualify for the Podium Sprint and finished 7th on the weekend.
In Falken ClubTR, Mario Mirone reset the front-wheel drive class record in heat 4, but broke his transmission at the beginning of Podium Sprint, relegating him to fifth in the weekend results in his #727 Honda Civic. Evan Mclaren, last year’s class champion, scored 2nd in Podium Sprint, with Stan Faygold snagging third in his #326 Toyota 86. The upset win was scored by Jerami Bailey, whose FA24-swapped Scion FR-S crossed the line on the final lap of the sprint with a 1:41.967 - just a half a tenth quicker than Mclaren. The feat conjured audible cheers from the crowd around the main stage, where a group had gathered to watch the intense fight in one of GRIDLIFE’s most competitive classes.
Street class was an-all Impreza showdown, with the podium comprised entirely of Subarus. Josh Halka’s #777 was first, followed by Mike Coons in his #310, and Tony Barber driving the Turn In Concepts #7. The #7 car was originally slated to be driven by Tom Halka, but a foot injury meant Barber had to jump into qualifying and the Podium Sprint to score points after Josh Halka attempted to qualify both cars in. He was successful, but since it’s not possible to drive two cars in the same session, Barber had to set his own times to qualify and race the car. Eddy Segal and John Laughlin just missed podiums at Carolina Motorsports Park.
Street GT and Street Mod were both won by Ryan Mathews, who expertly qualified both of his Chevrolet Corvettes into Podium Sprint in back-to-back sessions all weekend. Mathews also reset the rear-drive Street GT record. Mark Kilgore’s #909 BMW M4 and the #536 Chevrolet Corvette landed on the podium in Street GT, while the #70 Subaru of Dewey Dewitt and the #14 Mercedes-AMG GTS of Kal Fortner scored 2nd and 3rd behind Mathews in Street Mod. Jaime Santos’ #82 1-Series BMW was runner-up in Street Mod most of the weekend, but he was unable to keep pace with Fortner in the final session of the weekend.
After a spooky, high-speed off track excursion in qualifying, Justin Peachy’s #445 Chevrolet Corvette paced the Track Mod category. Though Chris Smith’s #212 BMW was on track to win, but an off at turn 1 caused his time to be disallowed. The #717 Corvette of Luke McGrew and the #404 Porsche Cayman rounded out the podium in Track Mod.
The Unlimited class was an absolute battleground on Sunday afternoon, with the #338 Corvette of Ernestas Puzelis and the #921 of Jim Rauck throwing down back to back improvements over each other. Despite Rauck’s best efforts, Puzelis’s ground-pounding Corvette won by 0.8 seconds after the two qualified within a tenth for the Podium Sprint. TrackBattle newcomer Phillip Glass-Hess in his highly modified MX-5 beat out Andrius Bertulis’s Lexus RCF for the final step of the podium.
GRIDLIFE South Carolina was just the first of nine competition rounds in 2025. Though the next broadcast vent will be GRIDLIFE Festival at GingerMan Raceway in June, each series will next compete at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in collaboration with Formula Drift May 9-10.
From large crowds to 30+ hours of drifting and a groundbreaking Night Drift debut, the season opener at Carolina Motorsports Park set the tone for the biggest GRIDLIFE year yet
Kershaw, South Carolina (17 April 2025)- Engines roared, rubber burned and the Carolina air buzzed with electricity during the GRIDLIFE South Carolina Festival April 11-13. From sun-soaked afternoons to a floodlit showdown after dark, a record-breaking crowd packed the Carolina Motorsports Park paddock as more than 30 hours of GRIDLIFE drifting tore through two courses day and night.
Building on the momentum of a successful 2024 season, the GRIDLIFE South Carolina Festival launched the 2025 calendar with unmatched energy, a stacked lineup and something to prove.
GRIDLIFE’s new three-day fusion of motorsport, music and unapologetic car culture wasn’t just an evolution—it was a declaration: This is how we do it now.
Everything about the weekend was bigger. The grids were bigger with more than 200 participants. The racing and drifting was bigger, spread across three days on two different track configurations and more than 30 hours of drifting day and night. The crowd was the biggest it’s ever been in the event’s three-year history. The streaming production, the celebrity names on the guest list, the amount of track time—bigger, louder and more immersive.
GRIDLIFE South Carolina didn’t just set the tone for the season—it raised the bar.
“The 2025 season is off to a hell of a start,” said GRIDLIFE President Chris Stewart. “The energy, the format, the crowd—we wanted to evolve, and this weekend proved we’re on the right track.”
Night Drift Was the Moment
The scene Saturday night was pure theater: headlights slicing through mist, engines revving to redline and smoke curling into the darkness as GRIDLIFE Night Drift made its official debut on the .7-mile karting track. After a full day drifting on the big track, under glowing track lights, a lineup of all-stars including Grant Anderson, Cole Richards, Hert and Lee Yearwood tore through the night with calculated chaos.
The fans? They lost it. Packed fences. Screams over the screech. Phones in hand, fans captured a drifting spectacle that immediately blew up on social media. It was a first for GRIDLIFE at Kershaw and an instant entry into the culture’s highlight reel.
Music and Motorsport
Drivers pushed their limits in a weekend of intense battles, delivering exciting and unpredictable finishes.
The 2020 Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup champion Eric Kutil returned to form in South Carolina, winning three of four races in dominant fashion before reigning champion Matan Rosenberg held him off by a nose in the Sunday finale. Their cars—polar opposites under the ruleset—delivered a tight duel. Eric Magnussen claimed third overall, while Eric Jensen impressed with a top-three finish and wild curb-hopping style in his LS-swapped FR-S.
The newly rebranded GRIDLIFE RUSH Series delivered edge-of-your-seat action with Ryan Leach sweeping all four races. Each time, Andy Voelkel and Nico Bratz kept him honest, especially in Race 1 where Leach snatched the win with a final-lap pass. YouTube stars TJ Hunt and Evan Shanks threw elbows mid-pack, while Nate Hamilton bounced back from a spin to finish inside the top 10 in points.
In TrackBattle’s Podium Sprint showdown, Chris Rice reset the Club SC track record in his Honda Fit with a time of 1:55.699-seconds, while Ryan Mathews doubled up in Street GT and Street Mod and rewrote the rear-drive Street GT record. Jerami Bailey shocked the Falken ClubTR field with a last-lap heater to take the win by half a tenth of a second in his FA24-swapped Scion FR-S .
While the track thundered with racing across the Eibach GLTC, RUSH Series and GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack, the infield pulsed to a different rhythm.
DJ Xcape, Jake Panda and Emo Nite with a special Grave Rave Set soundtracked the paddock late into Friday and Saturday night, turning tents and trailers into pop-up clubs. The result? An environment where race teams, fans and artists blurred into one community—raw, real and soaked in adrenaline.
Even off-track, the vibes didn’t quit. The new three-day festival format—the first time GRIDLIFE’s opened a season this way—hit all the right notes. With everything from pro-level driving to casual show-and-shine hangouts, there was no such thing as downtime. Just moments with friends turned into family.
The Tone Is Set
“The South Carolina Festival wasn’t just an opener—it was a line in the sand,” said Stewart. “A signal to fans, drivers and anyone watching that GRIDLIFE isn’t here to repeat seasons. It’s here to build on the legacy with something bigger, louder and more immersive.
“The 2025 GRIDLIFE season has officially begun, and if Carolina was the kickoff, the rest of the tour might just rewrite the playbook,” Stewart continued.
The next stop on the GRIDLIFE calendar is GRIDLIFE Special Stage Atlanta at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta May 9-10 where Formula DRIFT and GRIDLIFE will join forces for a first-of-its-kind collaborative event. In an unprecedented partnership between a track owner and two sanctioning bodies, the weekend will feature Formula DRIFT’s PRO and PROSPEC Championships alongside GRIDLIFE’s signature TrackBattle Time Attack, GLTC Touring Cup and GRIDLIFE RUSH Series. Highlighting the action is the highly anticipated return of GRIDLIFE Full Course Drift, where top-tier drivers—already on-site for Formula DRIFT—will take on the entire 2.54-mile circuit in a spectacle set to redefine Southeast drift culture.
Eric Kutil (#82) leads Mike Taylor (#39), Rob Manouchehri (#325), Julien Drennan, and Chris Tuttell through turns 10A and 10B in GLTC at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta in 2019.
Braselton, GA - A packed grid is set to compete at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta next weekend in collaboration with Formula Drift, with representation from all of GRIDLIFE’s series. Nearly ninety cars will fight for track records in the GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack Championship, over fifty in Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup, almost thirty in the GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, and a stacked field of drift drivers returning to full course drift at the 2.54-mile, 12-turn road course north of Atlanta.
Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship is Back at Road Atlanta
It’s been six years since Eibach GLTC has raced at Road Atlanta, last competing in August 2019 in what was the first-ever season of GRIDLIFE wheel-to-wheel competition. Though many names, faces, and cars, have changed - there are some present that raced in the 2019 event. Current points leader Eric Kutil won Race 3 back in 2019, and sails into Round 2 of the 2025 season carrying a wave of momentum from a trip to Carolina Motorsports Park in April, where he won three of four races en route to the weekend title. Robert McDaniels, who scored a weekend best of 18th in 2019 at Road Atlanta, is also signed up for the event next week.
The long back straightaway at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta provides ample overtaking opportunities, and with a field more heavily leaning towards large-displacement motors than six years ago, drivers like Eric Magnussen and Eric Jensen hope to carry their momentum from South Carolina in a more literal sense into turn 10A next week. Reigning champion Matan Rosenberg, in his #484 Falken-sponsored Chevrolet Corvette, also expressed excitement about the straightaways, despite racking up four consecutive podiums at the more technical Carolina Motorsports Park. Matt Waldbaum and James Houghton, championship contenders from previous seasons in Eibach GLTC, also will make their first starts of the year at Road Atlanta. The Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup Championship features four races throughout the race weekend, with a whopping 56-car grid set to take the green flag.
Drift Returns to Full Course at Road Atlanta
GRIDLIFE’s special sauce at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta for several years was the introduction of full course drift, utilizing the fast downhill esses and the long run down the backstraight as part of the spectacle. In addition to the Formula Drift portion of the weekend, GRIDLIFE will run its own drift sessions on the entirety of the 2.54-mile circuit. Grammy award winning artist T-Pain will join the field with Nappy Boy Automotive, at the place where his drifting journey began in 2018. He’ll be alongside stars and staples from Formula Drift: Chris Forseberg, Matt Field, and Vaughn Gittin Jr. Evan Shanks, who competed at GRIDLIFE South Carolina in the GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, joins the drift field for Road Atlanta. Nearly two dozen other drivers are registered to drift at one of the most storied road courses in North America.
GRIDLIFE’s non-competitive drift format allows for single runs, tandems, and trains - creating a unique spectacle around the full course at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.
GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Field Aims to Reset Aging Track Records
The GRIDLIFE TrackBattle Time Attack grid will feature 87 entries split across seven classes at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Feras Qartoumy is set to tackle the standing GRIDLIFE Unlimited RWD record, which was set by Brian Faessler in 2017, with a time of 1:23.418. Qartoumy has run significantly faster than this in other series since then, and will likely be able to eclipse the overall Unlimited record, which was a 1:19.962, set by Will Au-Yeung, in 2019. GRIDLIFE’s last trip to Road Atlanta predates the introduction of the Falken Club TR category, as well as the contemporary ruleset for the re-developed Track Mod rules in 2023 - so both classes will not have track record points available at this round while the benchmarks are set.
Street Mod, Street GT, Street, and Club SC will all very likely see track records broken as well, with heavy hitters like Michael Aumick, Josh Halka, Kal Fortner, Eric Fleming, and Sam Deuling on the entry lists for TrackBattle’s second round of 2025. Deuling, in particular, will battle standing record holder Matt Williams for the Club SC record, a 1:55.185, set in 2018. GRIDLIFE TrackBattle at Road Atlanta will not feature a Podium Sprint at this round, and will revert to the traditional format, where a driver’s best weekend lap is the scored time.
GRIDLIFE RUSH Series Sees Introduction of SRX, Multi-Class Racing, at Road Atlanta
The GRIDLIFE RUSH Series roars into Road Atlanta sporting another category - the RUSH SRX, which will create GRIDLIFE’s first multi-class wheel-to-wheel racing environment. Though the RUSH Series regularly features over 30 entrants piloting the RUSH SR, the SRX is an evolution and advancement of the technologies that made the SR popular, and in a package that delivers more power and excitement. A handful of the new cars are expected to compete, with more in production and on order. The SRX features over 100 more horsepower than the SR, and is complete with a DRS and Push-to-Pass system, pushing the car north of 270 horsepower in an 1,100-pound chassis.
Ryan Leach, who swept all four races at GRIDLIFE South Carolina, will try to repeat his successes and extend his points advantage over Andy Voelkel, who finished 2nd in all four races in Round 1. Nico Bratz, who scored four podiums in that same event, sits 28 points out of the lead. Many of the same names who competed in April in South Carolina are returning, including Ethan Alexander and James French, who spent much of the weekend in Kershaw trading positions. The pairing rushes into Road Atlanta separated by eight points, advantage French.
The introduction of the SRX, and its strategic use of Push-to-Pass, will be a key feature of the event for the GRIDLIFE RUSH Series. With more of the new car on the way, it is sure to be a thrilling addition to an already exciting series and format. The GRIDLIFE RUSH Series, like Eibach GLTC, competes four times at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta next weekend.
While the next GRIDLIFE Live broadcast will take place at GRIDLIFE Festival in June, fans of GRIDLIFE can follow along on GRIDLIFE’s social networks for updates, and on the GRIDLIFE website for daily highlights.
BRASELTON, GA (2 May 2025)- Two of the most electrifying forces in motorsports, GRIDLIFE and Formula DRIFT, are teaming up for an unprecedented weekend of high-octane action at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Set for May 9-10, the event marks a historic collaboration between Road Atlanta and two major sanctioning bodies, creating a new kind of motorsports experience for fans in the Southeast.
Held on Mother’s Day Weekend, the challenging 12-turn, 2.54-mile road course will thunder with the sound of turbocharged engines, sideways machines, and screaming tires as the GRIDLIFE Special Stage takes on Road Atlanta with fan-favorite motorsports programming, including TrackBattle Time Attack, the Eibach GRIDLIFE Touring Cup, GRIDLIFE RUSH Series and full-course drifting featuring GRIDLIFE Drift and Formula DRIFT drivers.
DRIFT HQ drivers coming into the Keyhole at GRIDLIFE South in 2019.
Known for blending grassroots racing with car culture and festival vibes, GRIDLIFE’s return to Road Atlanta, the first since 2019, will be bigger and bolder than ever. While GRIDLIFE has hosted standalone events at Road Atlanta before, this marks the first time its drivers will share the track with the world’s top professional drifters, delivering a drift showcase on a scale never seen before.
One of the weekend’s biggest draws is the GRIDLIFE Drift roster, which brings together professional drifters, content creators and celebrities. Atlanta’s own T-Pain will return to where his drifting journey began in 2018 at Road Atlanta, for a full-circle moment with GRIDLIFE. The Grammy-winning artist and car enthusiast, along with Nappy Boy Automotive teammate, Hert, will take on the full course alongside Formula Drift stars like Vaughn Gittin Jr., Chris Forsberg, Matt Field, Dan Burkett and Collete Davis, Formula DRIFT PROSPEC driver and well-known automotive influencer. Also joining the action is popular YouTube DIY builder Evan Shanks plus 20 additional grassroots drifters.
“This is GRIDLIFE’s most ambitious Road Atlanta event to date,” said GRIDLIFE founder Chris Stewart. “We’ve done full-course drift here before, but combining forces with Formula DRIFT gives us an opportunity to bring the spectacle to a much bigger stage.”
Formula DRIFT adds even more horsepower to the weekend with its PRO and PROSPEC Championships. Fans can expect practice runs, seeding bracket battles, Top 32 tandem eliminations, autograph sessions and more, bringing the unmistakable sound and style of pro drifting to the GRIDLIFE experience.
Home to the legendary MOTUL Petit Le Mans, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta is a staple of American motorsports. With fast corners, big elevation changes and natural amphitheater viewing, it’s an ideal venue for a motorsports weekend that blends pro-level competition with grassroots excitement.
With two powerhouse brands uniting and thousands of fans expected to descend on Braselton, the 2025 Mother’s Day weekend event is poised to be a unique and thrilling experience.
For tickets and event information visit: https://www.grid.life/special-stage
