Jack Shanahan claimed his first-ever Round win in the series and securing the prestigious 2025 Formula DRIFT PRO Rookie of the Year title in the process at the Shoreline Showdown under the floodlights of Long Beach, California.
Killavullen’s Jack Shanahan was joined on the podium by James Deane, who claimed third place at the final round of the 2025 Formula DRIFT PRO Championship.
The event took place on a newly constructed, purpose-built street circuit designed to test the world’s best drift drivers with its tight corners and technical layout.
Driving his Kumho Tires BMW 1 Series, Shanahan delivered a composed and commanding performance throughout the knockout stages, defeating Norway’s Simen Olsen in the Top 8 and seasoned American Ryan Tuerck in the Final 4. A mechanical issue for Japan’s Hiroya Minowa in the final handed Shanahan the victory, the perfect end to a breakout debut season.
“It’s been a hell of a season fighting to get the first win,” Shanahan said afterwards. “We’ve struggled with the car, but it’s been better than ever today.”
Shanahan’s triumph caps a remarkable year for North Cork motorsport. James Deane, already crowned 2025 Formula DRIFT PRO Champion following Round 7 in Utah, finished third in Long Beach after another superb drive in his AutoZone Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD.
Deane made history earlier this season by becoming the first five-time Formula DRIFT Champion, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest drift drivers of all time. His consistency has been unmatched, seven podiums from eight rounds, extending both his personal record and RTR Motorsports’ streak to three consecutive championships.
For the villages of Castletownroche and Killavullen, the achievements of Shanahan and Deane represent more than sporting success, they are a source of local pride and proof that world-class talent can emerge from the back roads of North Cork.
Shanahan ends his debut season sixth overall, while Deane tops the standings in commanding fashion. As one era continues and another begins,
