FINDLAY, Ohio (March 9, 2006) — Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. for the third consecutive year will sponsor the Need for Speed Formula Drift Championship Series plus offer a contingency program for drivers using Cooper tires.
Seven Formula D events are scheduled this year. At each of the events, Cooper will offer awards for drivers using its tires for the entire event. The awards will include $5,000 for a first place finish, $3,000 for second place and $1,000 for third place. Drivers finishing in fourth through eighth and ninth through 16th will receive $500 and $300, respectively.
A year-end award will focus on drivers who complete all seven races on Cooper tires and win first ($7,000), second ($5,000) or third ($3,000) overall. The next two highest rated drivers will receive $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.
Drivers must use Cooper tires in all four positions for the entire event plus meet various decal and signage requirements.
“Formula D has been the hottest drift series in the United States for the past two years, and Cooper Tire is proud to be associated with Formula D since its inception,” said Chris Pantani, director of UHP marketing and business development.