International Drifting Cup 2026: New Format, New Party, Same Legends!
- May 15
- 3 min read
The atmosphere at Sydney Motorsport Park is defined by the smell of burning rubber, the scream of high-revving engines, and two very specific voices echoing through the grandstands. We are beyond excited to announce that the "dynamic duo" of Robbie Nishida and Jarod DeAnda are officially returning to lead the commentary and judging team for World Time Attack Challenge 2026.
International Legends Meet Australian Excellence
Securing Robbie and Jarod for 2026 was a top priority for the WTAC team, largely due to their unrivaled standing and respected steads within the international drifting scene. These two ain't your run-of-the-mill 'drift personalities'; they are titans of the industry who have seen the best the world has to offer from Ebisu to Irwindale.
Their return is a massive nod to the caliber of talent down under. Both Robbie and Jarod are making the trek specifically to witness what the Aussies have to offer, serving as the ultimate judges of a field that has solidified the International Drifting Cup as the most-watched Australian drift event. You can also catch Jarod and Robbie both days of the event hosting meet-and-greets and discussions at the WTAC Main Stage (and also for exclusive sessions in the VIP room for those with VIP tickets!)
Jarod DeAnda: The "Voice of Formula Drift" brings his signature energy and a global perspective. Having called the biggest battles on the planet, he knows world-class drifting when he sees it—and he’s coming to Sydney to see if the local heroes can defend their turf.
Robbie Nishida: A legendary pro competitor with deep roots and over a decade rooted in high-level Japanese and American drifting culture. Robbie’s technical "surgeon’s eye" provides fans with an insider’s look from a pro driver's perspective, offering a level of expertise that elevates the entire broadcast.
A Revolution for the Exedy Australia International Drifting Cup
While our legendary hosts remain a fan-favorite constant, the competition they are covering is undergoing its most radical transformation yet. The EXEDY Australia International Drifting Cup is being completely overhauled for 2026 with a brand-new format designed to pack more action into every hour.
Thursday Night - 3rd September 2026: The weekend kicks off with high-stakes Practice and Qualifying, where an exclusive group of our Top 16 drivers will have to master their craft and dial-in their set ups to make it to the Finals.
Friday Night - 4th September 2026: The main event! The EXEDY Australia International Drifting Cup Finals move to Friday night, creating a high-pressure stadium environment where the best will go door-to-door for the crown.
Saturday Night: The Ultimate Track Party
By shifting the International Drifting Cup finals to Friday, we’ve blown the gates wide open for a massive Saturday night WTAC finale.
We are currently keeping the specifics under wraps, but we can confirm that Saturday will conclude with a not-yet-announced 'track party'. We are reimagining how we celebrate the climax of the world’s biggest time attack event, and this party is set to be a ground-breaking addition to the WTAC experience. It's set to be a scene to witness some mayhem after dark.
Tickets are on sale now. Stay tuned for more details on the new competition, 'track party', and the full 2026 schedule. With Robbie and Jarod on the mic and an exciting new format for drift, WTAC 2026 is officially ready to send it! Get in quick to secure your tickets online, VIP tickets selling fast!
World Time Attack Challenge is proudly supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.
