Formula DRIFT has reorganized its Pro-Am Affiliate Program for 2026, outlining new and expanded pathways for drivers seeking a competition license in either the PRO or PROSPEC championships.

Both the PRO and PROSPEC fields are capped at 40 drivers. In PROSPEC, the top 24 drivers in the previous season’s standings automatically retain their competition places, while in PRO the top 32 are secured. The remaining 16 PROSPEC and eight PRO spots are subject to relegation. Drivers who finish 25th or lower in PROSPEC, or 33rd or lower in PRO, risk losing their Formula DRIFT competition license unless they meet specific criteria or successfully petition the series to remain.

For drivers aiming to enter PROSPEC, Formula DRIFT has published a list of 10 qualifying multi-round Pro-Am championships whose winners will earn a PROSPEC license for the following season. Three new additions join the program for 2026: DMCC in Quebec, Gateway PROAM at Worldwide Technology Raceway near St. Louis, and Klutch Kickers in Alabama, which has been promoted from the Scouting Program. Other affiliated series include Drift Colorado (CO), East 10 Drift (GA and TN), Full Lock Drift (OK), Great Lakes ProAm (PN), ND Drift (ND), Spec D (Canada) and US Drift Circuit (FL).

In addition to the Pro-Am route, drivers may pursue a PROSPEC license through the Formula DRIFT Scouting Program. Participating series include Drift School USA (CA), Evergreen Drift (WA) and US DRIFT (VA, WV, NC and NJ). These organizations can recommend standout drivers for licensing consideration, though approval is not guaranteed. Drivers, particularly those from outside North America with current competition licenses, may also submit individual petitions.

There are three routes to obtain a PRO license. The most direct is a top-three finish in the PROSPEC championship, which guarantees eligibility to advance. Drivers can also qualify by winning Hotpit Autofest, a five-round championship in the Greater Los Angeles region, or by petitioning the series.

Formula DRIFT officials said the strengthened 2026 Affiliate Program is intended to maintain competitive standards while creating structured opportunities for emerging talent to enter the series.

For more information, visit formulad.com/pro-am.