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Finland's Lauri Heinonen will join the 2025 D1NZ Drifting Championship as an international wildcard, driving the 900hp Turbo V8 powered 180sx for JDM Racing 👏

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:




Drift Masters Champion Lauri Heinonen Set to Compete at D1NZ Go Media Stadium Round 3

The adrenaline-fueled world of professional drifting will reach new heights as reigning Drift Masters Champion Lauri Heinonen prepares to make his debut on New Zealand soil at D1NZ Round 3, set to take place at Go Media Stadium, Auckland 


Heinonen, who claimed the 2024 Drift Masters European Championship title, has solidified his place as one of the top drifters in the world. Piloting his Nissan 180SX, he delivered an exceptional season, including a breakthrough victory at Round 3 in PowerPark, Finland, where he thrilled his home crowd. His championship journey reached its climax at the season finale in Warsaw’s PGE Narodowy stadium, where he secured the title despite a near-catastrophic engine failure during his Top 16 battle.


“We’re thrilled to welcome Lauri to D1NZ,” said Brendon White, CEO of Grit Motorsport and D1NZ. “Having a champion of his caliber compete on Kiwi turf is an exciting opportunity for both our drivers and fans. It’s going to be an unforgettable battle under the lights at Go Media Stadium.”


D1NZ’s stadium rounds bring a unique blend of high-speed action and tight technical layouts, pushing drivers to their limits in front of thousands of passionate motorsport fans. With Heinonen’s experience on the global stage, all eyes will be on the Finnish drift sensation as he takes on the best in Round 3 of the 2025 D1NZ Championship.





Fans can expect a spectacle of world-class drifting, as Heinonen lines up against New Zealand’s top drivers, including reigning national champion [NZ Champion’s Name], international guest competitors, and rising stars of the sport.


Event Details:

📍 Go Media Stadium, Auckland📅

Friday 7th

Saturday - 8th

📺 Live broadcast on Sky Sport, YouTube, and Fox Sports Australia




About D1NZ

D1NZ is New Zealand’s premier drifting championship, delivering high-octane motorsport entertainment for over 20 years. Showcasing the best local and international talent, D1NZ continues to push the boundaries of professional drifting with cutting-edge competition, world-class drivers, and an electrifying atmosphere.


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