Motul powers Saito win in Formula Drift

MANILA, Philippines - On round 1 of the Formula Drift Asia held last July, Japanese drift sensation Daigo Saito seized first place for the second time this season. The Japanese champion, whose team has been supported by Motul since the beginning of the year, brilliantly repelled Indonesian Rio Saputro Budihardjo’s attacks in the Finals—the latter’s talent catching everyone by surprise.

In front of 9,000 fans of this increasingly popular sport, the two drivers delivered a relentless battle, performing spectacular slides accompanied by clouds of smoke from overheated tires. During the first run, the Indonesian had a spin, leaving Saito in command before he committed a fault, forcing a second run. Saito then took the lead, driving his drift-battle Lexus with Budihardjo unable to catch him.

“I’m happy to win this Singapore race for the second time,” noted Saito. “The Final was difficult against Budihardjo, who was in great shape all weekend. I had to focus and give it my best shot to get victory. I’ve always loved this meeting in Singapore because the crowd is extremely enthusiastic,” he adds. This performance allowed Saito to increase his championship lead.

Formula Drift Asia is an offshoot of the North American formula drift competition, a spectacular and growing discipline. Team Motul-Saito is preparing for the second round of Formula Drift Asia to be held in Thailand in September.

For details on how to improve your car’s performance on and off the track, call Autoplus Sportzentrium at 726-0399 log on to www.motul.com.ph. Motul oil and lubricants are also available in select dealers nationwide.