Kumho Tire Driver Jack Shanahan Dominates as 2025 Formula Drift Rookie of the Year

Kumho Tire's Rising Star: Jack Shanahan

In a remarkable turn of events, Kumho Tire U.S.A. has proudly announced that their driver, Jack Shanahan, has earned the coveted title of 2025 Rookie of the Year in the Formula Drift PRO Championship. On October 22, 2025, this achievement was highlighted by his stunning first-round victory during the thrilling Formula DRIFT Round 8 Shoreline Showdown held in Long Beach, California.

Racing on the high-performance KUMHO Ecsta V730 tires, Shanahan exhibited his extraordinary driving prowess throughout the season, culminating in an impressive sixth-place finish overall and two podium spots in his inaugural season. Ed Cho, CEO of Kumho Tire U.S.A., praised Shanahan's success, noting, “Jack Shanahan had tremendous success in his rookie year in Formula DRIFT, highlighted by an exciting first-place podium finish at the new Long Beach street course.”

Jack’s journey to this point has been a combination of talent, determination, and support from Kumho Tire. At the Shoreline Showdown, the course was designed to pose challenges with its technical features, including seven Outside Zones, which fostered tight competition among drivers. Shanahan showcased his skillful handling of the BMW 1 Series with KUMHO tires, defeating notable competitors in various heats, including Adam LZ, Simen Olsen, and Ryan Tuerck, solidifying his place as a formidable force in the sport.

Reflecting on his victory, Shanahan expressed his gratitude for Kumho Tire's support throughout the season. “It’s been a hell of a season fighting to get the first win. We've struggled with the car, but it was better than ever this past weekend,” he stated, illustrating his heartfelt appreciation for the backing he received, especially considering his journey, which began in his native Ireland.

Shanahan's story began when he first picked up driving at the age of 10. His passion for hot rod racing led him to discover drifting, with guidance from a close friend and mentor, James Deane. At only 13, Shanahan's racing abilities began to shine as he captured several titles, including both the Rookie and Semi-Pro championships in his first competitive season. This led him to continue thriving in competitive drifting series, eventually achieving numerous international championships before stepping onto the Formula Drift stage.

His debut in Formula Drift marked a significant milestone, and the challenges he faced only fueled his ambition further. With each successful performance, Shanahan is not only living his dream but also representing Kumho Tire on a global platform. The partnership has proven fruitful for both parties, as Kumho aims to expand its reach in the world of professional motorsports.

As they look ahead to 2026, Kumho Tire is set on further amplifying its involvement in Formula Drift, supporting new talents like Jack Shanahan while celebrating its rich history as a leading tire manufacturer. For fans of drifting and motorsport enthusiasts, Shanahan's journey is just beginning, and the world is eager to see where his talents will lead him next.

For more information on Kumho and their commitment to excellence in motorsports, fans can follow along on social media @kumhotireUSA or check out their lineup at www.kumhotire.com.