Daijiro Yoshihara

Daijiro "Dai" Yoshihara, born on December 24, 1978, is a Japanese professional driver with a versatile and impressive career spanning various motorsport disciplines. His expertise includes drifting, road racing, time attack, hill climb, stunt driving, and instructing. Dai's passion for cars ignited early in his life, fueled by his father's work at a car dealership in Hachioji, Tokyo. He obtained his driver's license at 18 and quickly immersed himself in the world of drifting. Before racing professionally, he held various jobs, including working as a chef, gas station attendant, truck driver, car salesman, and eBay seller of Japanese car parts.

Yoshihara began his professional career in 2003 in the D1 Grand Prix in the United States. He quickly made a name for himself, transitioning to Formula Drift and achieving multiple podium finishes. In 2011, he secured the Formula Drift Series Championship and the Triple Crown award. Dai has also excelled in other racing forms, including time attack events, road racing, and hill climbs. In 2020, he conquered the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, taking first place in the Unlimited Class. Yoshihara's smooth driving style and fearless entries have earned him a reputation as a top competitor and a fan favorite. He has driven for Pacific Rim, Discount Tire, Falken Tire, and Turn 14 Distribution.

Even after retiring from Formula Drift in 2021, Dai continues to pursue his passion for motorsports. He participates in events like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and Global Time Attack. Beyond racing, Yoshihara has also worked as a stunt driver in Hollywood movies, including "Gran Turismo." He remains an influential figure in the motorsport community, inspiring others with his talent and dedication.