Universal Orlando Reveals “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” for 2027

January 29, 2026

Universal Studios Florida is officially shifting into high gear. On January 20, 2026, the resort confirmed that the rumors are true: a high-octane, record-breaking new attraction is coming to the front of the park. Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is slated to open in 2027, replacing the iconic Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, which closed its gates permanently in August 2025.

This isn’t just another roller coaster—it’s a technological marvel designed to bring the physics of street racing to life.

Developed by renowned coaster manufacturer Intamin (the masterminds behind VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s), this ride features a groundbreaking controlled spinning system.

The Sensation: Unlike a standard coaster where you simply follow the track, these ride vehicles will pivot 360 degrees as you move. This allows the cars to “drift” sideways through turns, just like Dom Toretto’s 1970 Dodge Charger.
The Speed: While the California version of the ride will hit 72 mph, Orlando’s version is expected to rival those speeds, making it one of the fastest “spinning” coasters on the planet.

Universal isn’t just replacing an icon; they’re building a new one. Hollywood Drift is set to become the tallest roller coaster at Universal Orlando Resort, narrowly beating out its predecessor.

The Vertical Spike: The coaster’s signature element will be a 170-foot vertical spike. Riders will be launched 17 stories straight into the air, overlooking Universal CityWalk, before plunging backward into the next maneuver.

The “Supercharged” Shuffle: In a move that has many fans cheering, Universal also confirmed that the often-criticized Fast & Furious: Supercharged attraction will permanently close in 2027. This allows the park to consolidate the franchise into one world-class, high-thrill experience.

f you walk past the New York section of Universal Studios Florida today, you’ll see the transformation is already well underway.

Station Prep: Foundations for the new garage-themed loading station are being poured behind the Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon attraction.
Track Arrival: Segments of steel track have already been spotted near the Epic Universe staging site. Rumors suggest the Orlando track will be a striking cobalt blue, distinguishing it from the black track of VelociCoaster.
Landscape Changes: The construction zone is massive, expanding beyond the original Rip Ride Rockit footprint to accommodate the complex new layout.

🏁 Hollywood vs. Orlando

While both coasts are getting a “Hollywood Drift,” they won’t be identical twins.

Hollywood (Opening 2026): Built on a hillside, this version will dive over the famous Starway escalators.
Orlando (Opening 2027): Built on flat ground, the Florida version will focus on the massive vertical spike and a sprawling layout that interacts with the park’s entrance.

Written by: Cat Haley