Round 3 of the 2025 Drift Masters season kicked off in explosive style at PowerPark Huvivaltio, with Qualifying Day delivering some of the most intense runs we’ve seen in a long time. From sky-high scores to heartbreaks and even surprise moments off the track, Friday in Finland had it all.
Deane, McKeever, and Więcek Lead the Charge
The level of driving was nothing short of spectacular, with a staggering 25 drivers scoring over 90 points in qualifying.
At the top of the leaderboard was James Deane, who laid down a clinical 98.5 on his very first run to secure first place. Just behind him came Duane McKeever, who delivered an incredible 98 on his second run. That performance was made even more impressive by the fact that he was driving a borrowed car. Rounding out the Top 3 was Polish star Piotr Więcek, who scored a 97.2 on his final run to claim third place.
Japan’s Naoki Nakamura placed fourth with a 97-point run, earning his place in the Qualifying Showdown, where the top four qualifiers battle head-to-head for additional championship points.
Nakamura Steals the Showdown Spotlight
The Showdown did not disappoint. First up, it was a heavyweight clash between Irishman James Deane and Japanese driver Naoki Nakamura, a pairing that ‘s been a long time coming. In a wild kick off battle, it was Nakamura who edged out the Irishman to secure his place in the final.
With Piotr Więcek stepping out of the contest, Duane McKeever advanced directly to the final via a bye run. But in the last battle of the day, it was Naoki Nakamura who came out on top once again, sealing the win and closing out the day as the Qualifying Showdown champion in front of a roaring Finnish crowd.
Wild Moments Beyond The Track
The Finnish fans once again proved why this stop is one of the most electric on the Drift Masters calendar. The grandstands were filled with some of the best fans around, the energy was unmatched, and in true Finnish fashion, things got a little wild. One unforgettable moment came away from the track action, as a marriage proposal unfolded among the crowd, adding a wholesome twist to an already unforgettable day.
What’s Next?
The drama is only just getting started. Drift Masters returns live on Red Bull TV tomorrow at 12:45 PM EEST for the Top 32 Battles. If today was anything to go by, Saturday promises to be unmissable.
