A Crazed Drift King: Who is Mad Mike?

You’ve heard the nickname, now you’re going to learn just why ‘Mad Mike’ is such a big deal!

‘Mad Mike’ has been rocking the drifting world since 2006 and over the years you are sure to have seen him, or at least his collection of incredible cars, putting on an amazing show.

Ever since he was a child, this fearless New Zealander has been a thrill-seeker and it all started with motocross racing at the age of 6. This was followed by BMW competitions, pro FMX and then, you guessed it, drifting.

Now an ambassador for the sport, Mike Whiddett is a natural showman, backed by Red Bull and many other huge brands, and this superstar ‘Drift King’ is showing no signs of slowing.

Mike has enjoyed much success in his career and his was the first ever Motorsport New Zealand award for ‘Outstanding Achievement’ to go to a New Zealand drift driver.

Wondering how he came to be known as ‘Mad Mike’?

Well, that would be because he loves to create unique, high-powered (we’re talking 1,000bhp plus) machines and push them to their limits on the track. As long as its ‘loud, fast and dangerous’, he’ll take it for a spin!

He enjoys drifting so much, he has created his own event called the Red Bull Drift Shifters, where drivers are scored based on sensors that are triggered around the course. Mike then went on to win said event in Auckland in 2014, as well as taking the trophy in various races all over the world including Formula Drift Japan (2018).

He has raced a selection of custom racers, with each one being his own ‘dream car’ and they never fail to blow the minds of the crowds that gather to watch him compete.

Mike’s creations are so special that they can be seen in famous video games such as ‘Need for Speed’, giving us all a tiny glimpse into what it might be like to actually sit behind the wheel of one of these beasts.

As if his skill as a driver and knack for crafting champion race cars wasn’t enough, Mike is also known for being an amazing entertainer, so keep an eye out for his next appearance!