Crank & Piston was among thousands crammed into Yas Marina’s North Grandstand at the end of last month, to whoop with delight as the boys from Formula Drift came to visit.  Having Formula Drift in town was big news as you can imagine and the Yas crew threw the kitchen sink at the event.

It’s the first time that the top tier of professional drifting has come to the Middle East, but we hope it’s not the last.

The assembled drivers included Chris Forsberg, Tony Brakohiapa and “Mad” Mike Whiddett, who all seemed to enjoy themselves as much as the crowd did.

Also in town was Top Gear USA host Tanner Foust (above, right), in his last drifting engagement. The American is retiring from the sideways stuff to focus on other motorsport disciplines.