Drift Masters Pre-Event 9.7.2026

The Drift Masters Pre-Event brings the race atmosphere to Hämeenlinna’s Linnanpuisto Park on Thursday, July 9.

The Drift Masters weekend kicks off in Hämeenlinna as early as Thursday, July 9, 2026, with a free pre-event for the whole family in Linnanpuisto Park. During the evening, you can get a taste of the high-speed action to come, meet the drivers, and admire international drifting race cars up close.

Linnanpuisto Park will be buzzing with race-day excitement as Drift Masters drivers and their spectacular drift cars arrive from Ahvenisto. The event offers a fantastic opportunity to get to know the sport, meet the drivers, and soak up the atmosphere ahead of the Drift Masters European Championship round at the Ahvenisto circuit.

Drift cars, drivers, and interviews

At the pre-event, you can see drift cars up close, meet world-class drivers, and hear interesting driver interviews. A Red Bull DJ will be on hand to set the mood for the evening.

The drivers' Meet & Greet will take place from 17:30 to 17:50. During this time, visitors will have the opportunity to meet the drivers in person, get autographs, and take photos together.

A striking convoy of cars rolls into Linnanpuisto

One of the event's most anticipated moments is the drift car parade. The impressive convoy of cars will set off from Ahvenisto towards Linnanpuisto at 5:00 PM, so it is worth arriving in good time.

Parade route

The parade route runs from the Ahvenisto race track south along Poltinahontie and via Maijankatu to Parolantie. From Parolantie, the route turns onto Brahenkatu and proceeds directly to Linnanpuisto.

Advance wristband exchange for event guests

Advance wristband exchange for the Drift Masters Ahvenisto event will also take place in Linnanpuisto from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Exchanging your wristband on Thursday will make your arrival at Ahvenisto smoother on the actual event days.

Event details

Time: Thursday, July 9, 2026, 5–7 p.m.
Place: Linnanpuisto, Kustaa III Katu, Hämeenlinna
Entrance: free of charge
For who: for people of all ages interested in drifting, motor sports, and the event atmosphere

We recommend parking your car in the city center, as there is roadwork underway in the vicinity of Linnanpuisto.

Welcome to kick off the Drift Masters weekend together in the center of Hämeenlinna!