Image Credit: Afra Alnofeli
At just 17 years old, Emirati drifting prodigy Khalifa Al Falasi is set to make history as the youngest driver and the first Emirati to compete at the FIA Intercontinental Drifting Cup this October in Riga, Latvia. The milestone not only highlights Khalifa’s rapid rise in motorsport but also reflects the UAE’s growing footprint in global racing.
Khalifa’s passion for drifting began in childhood, when he accompanied his father to local events. “Since I was about five years old, I used to watch racing drivers compete, and I always wanted to be like them,” he recalls. His breakthrough came in 2022, when he joined Prodrift Academy at just 14, honing the fundamentals of the sport.
In January 2023, he made his competitive debut at the Emirates Drift Championship, held in rare rainy conditions. “It was my first time, and drifting in the rain is something we don’t usually face in the UAE. But I enjoyed it and wanted to keep going,” he said.
Since then, Khalifa has taken his skills across the region, competing in Oman, Qatar, and the UAE, as well as international platforms such as the Red Bull Car Park Drift. Among his key achievements was securing the highest-ranking finish for an Emirati at the Emirates Drift Championship at Yas Marina Circuit.
Currently, he competes behind the wheel of a Nissan Silvia S13, powered by an LS3 V8 turbocharged engine delivering more than 700 horsepower. “It’s a car built only for the track, meeting FIA technical and safety standards, and one of the strongest I’ve driven,” he explained.
Now, Khalifa is preparing for what he calls the biggest challenge of his career—going head-to-head with elite drivers from 42 countries. “I’m excited and proud to be the first Emirati and the youngest driver in this competition. It’s a new chapter, and I want to raise the UAE flag high,” he said.
Khalifa is quick to credit those who have supported him along the way. He acknowledges his father’s guidance, as well as the encouragement of the UAE government and the Emirates Motorsports Organization in creating world-class opportunities for young athletes. “The government has really helped us by building top-class tracks and supporting motorsports through competitions and sponsorships. I also thank the UAETSS programme by the Ministry of Sports for giving me the chance to grow in this sport,” he added.
Looking ahead, Khalifa’s immediate target is to deliver a strong performance in Latvia from October 2 to 5. His long-term ambition, however, is to become a dominant force on the international drifting circuit while inspiring a new generation of Emirati racers.
“My message to the youth is that you can start young. There are racing academies where you can learn from as early as 13 years old. It’s a great way to develop your skills and represent your country,” he said.
For Khalifa, drifting is more than a competition it is a passion, a tribute to his nation, and a mission to put the UAE firmly on the global motorsport map.
