RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA — Falken Tire Corp. has unveiled its 2005 contingency program for the Formula Drift series. Falken Tire is a member of the Sumitomo Rubber Industries Group.

In addition to assembling what the tire company says is the largest “Works” team competing in the U.S. series, Falken will also offer payouts to any drivers/teams (“Works” or privateer) competing on Falken Tires that meet the rules and regulations of the program.

“Tires are by far the most costly recurring expense in drifting,” said Nick Fousekis, Falken’s Performance Marketing Manager. “We want to help drivers and especially the privateer teams who earn their way to the winner’s circle on Falken tires. Not only will the contingency program participants have this opportunity to win cash payouts, registered teams will also receive trackside tire mounting support at all 6 rounds of Formula D from one of our two Falken Motorsport rigs supporting Team Falken this year.

“We’re proud to add this contingency program to our 2005 drift program as a small thank you to our drivers and supporters. With the addition of our new Azenis RT-615 tires, our team has the key to dominate the podium this season,” Fousekis continued.

“Falken Tire helped bring drifting to the masses more than two years ago. Its heavy support of drifting has had a huge influence on what drifting is today in the U.S.” said Jim Liaw of Formula D.

Cash payouts for Formula D rounds 1-6 will range from $2,000 for first place to $100 for eighth place. Payouts for the Series Championship will be $5,000 for first place; $3,000 for second and $2,000 for third place.

For complete details, go to: www.falkentire.com .

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