DRIFTING: PASSION OR PUBLIC HAZARD?

The Royal Oman Police (ROP) recently took action by halting 98 vehicles in Muscat for violating traffic regulations and disturbing public peace. This enforcement underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure road safety, particularly as drifting — a high-adrenaline motorsport — re-emerges on public roads. While drifting is often associated with professional racing, it has gained popularity among car enthusiasts. However, when practiced outside controlled environments, it poses significant risks to both drivers and the general public.

Drifting, which involves intentionally steering a vehicle sideways while maintaining control through turns, has its roots in rallying and touring motorsports. It first gained prominence in Japan during the late 1970s and early 1980s, particularly among street racers. By the late 1990s and early 2000s, drifting had become a global phenomenon, influencing not only motorsports but also fashion, art and lifestyle. Today, drifting is recognised as a competitive sport, with professional series like Formula Drift in the United States and D1 Grand Prix in Japan.

In Oman, drifting has surged in popularity in recent years. Specific roads in Muscat have become hotspots for enthusiasts and despite previous efforts to curb the practice, drifting on public roads has resurfaced, prompting the ROP to take action. These recent efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance security and maintain public order.

One organisation working to ensure drifting remains safe is the Oman Automobile Association (OAA). The OAA has established facilities in Muscat, Suhar and Ibri, where enthusiasts can legally practice and compete. According to Suleiman al Rawahi, Managing Director of the OAA, the association provides a safe and regulated environment for drifting, with strict safety standards in place. “We have rules and regulations. The simple fact is, following these rules can make you professional,” said Al Rawahi.

For safety, the OAA mandates that drifting vehicles include features such as roll cages, fire-resistant interiors, fire extinguishers and specialised fuel tanks to minimise fire risks. These safety measures align with international standards to protect drivers. Al Rawahi emphasised that practicing motorsports in a controlled environment significantly reduces risks, making it far safer than drifting on public streets. “The risk on public roads is much higher than in a race, which is a controlled environment,” he said.

While drifting is a recognised motorsports, street racing remains illegal. Al Rawahi stressed that the OAA’s facilities are designed to keep drifting off public roads. “These facilities are only part of the solution. The rest is the mindset, with better awareness to understand that if you practice motorsports, you must practice with education and respect,” he explained.

The 7th Oman International Drift Championship, taking place this weekend in Suhar, will see participants from 17 countries. This event offers drivers the opportunity to showcase their skills in a regulated, controlled environment. Drifting competitions involve drivers being judged based on several criteria, including drift angle, speed, line and style. Techniques such as power oversteer, clutch kicks, e-brake pulls and feint drifts are common. To achieve optimal performance, drivers modify their vehicles with upgrades such as suspension enhancements, high-performance tires and engine tuning.

Despite the excitement drifting brings, it is crucial to recognise the inherent risks, especially when practiced outside sanctioned events. By participating in competitions and adhering to safety guidelines, enthusiasts can enjoy the sport while minimising risks. For the safety of both drivers and the public, drifting should be confined to designated facilities, not public roads. As drifting continues to grow as both a competitive sport and a cultural expression, it must remain within controlled environments where risks are minimised and safety standards are upheld.

Drifting, with its unique blend of skill and creativity, is here to stay.

However, enthusiasts must be educated on the importance of following regulations and practicing the sport responsibly. Only then can drifting remain a thrilling motorsports without compromising public safety.