Every year, the Carlisle Ford Nationals transforms Carlisle, Pennsylvania into the epicenter of Ford performance culture. Thousands of enthusiasts from across North America descend upon the fairgrounds to celebrate the Blue Oval legacy, from classic Mustangs and vintage Broncos to the latest generation of performance-built Ford machines. In 2026, one of the event’s biggest attractions was the arrival of Formula Drift Pro driver Ben Hobson alongside the powerhouse brands of RTR Vehicles and Fun Haver, bringing a level of excitement that perfectly blended professional motorsports with enthusiast-driven passion. (Carlisle Events)
For Ford fans, the sight of tire smoke rolling across the grounds has become synonymous with RTR. Founded by drifting icon Vaughn Gittin Jr. RTR Vehicles has become one of the most recognizable performance brands in the automotive industry. Their presence at Carlisle represents far more than a display booth it is an opportunity for enthusiasts to experience the spirit of modern Ford performance firsthand. This year, RTR returned with Formula Drift Pro driver Ben Hobson and his Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5-D, one of the most capable drift machines in North American motorsports. (Carlisle Events)
As spectators packed the grandstands and lined the fences, anticipation built for Hobson’s demonstrations. The Alabama native has steadily risen through the drifting ranks, earning championships and establishing himself as one of the newest members of the RTR Drift Team. Behind the wheel of his Mustang RTR, Hobson delivered exactly what fans came to see high-speed entries, precision transitions, and massive clouds of tire smoke that echoed throughout the Carlisle grounds. (RTR Vehicles)
What makes Carlisle unique is that it bridges the gap between professional motorsports and grassroots enthusiasts. One moment fans are admiring concours-level restorations, and the next they are witnessing a Formula Drift machine attacking a course with championship level intensity. Hobson’s demonstrations embodied that connection, showing spectators what modern Ford performance is capable of when placed in the hands of a professional driver. (Carlisle Events)
Equally important was the presence of Fun Haver, a brand that has become synonymous with automotive enthusiasm and lifestyle culture. Built around the philosophy of enjoying vehicles and sharing experiences, Fun Haver continues to inspire enthusiasts to get involved, attend events, and become active participants in the automotive community. Their presence alongside RTR highlighted a shared mission: bringing people together through a passion for cars.
Throughout the weekend, fans had opportunities not only to watch Hobson perform but also to meet him during autograph sessions and interact with the RTR team. These moments are often what leave the biggest impact. Young enthusiasts dreaming of becoming professional drivers stood beside one of Formula Drift’s competitors, while longtime Ford owners shared stories and experiences with the team behind some of the most influential performance vehicles in the industry. (Carlisle Events)
The atmosphere surrounding the RTR display remained electric all weekend. Enthusiasts gathered around the Mustang RTR platform, discussing modifications, performance upgrades, and the future of Ford motorsports. The connection between professional drifting and enthusiast ownership has always been a cornerstone of RTR’s success, and Carlisle once again demonstrated how powerful that relationship can be. Recent RTR appearances at Carlisle have consistently attracted large crowds eager to see drift demonstrations, meet drivers, and experience the latest developments from the brand. (RTR Vehicles)
For many attendees, the weekend represented more than a car show. It was a celebration of automotive culture, innovation, and community. The combination of Ben Hobson’s Formula Drift expertise, RTR Vehicles’ commitment to performance, and Fun Haver’s enthusiast-first mindset created an unforgettable experience that resonated throughout the event.
As the smoke cleared and another Carlisle Ford Nationals came to a close, one thing remained certain the partnership between Ben Hobson, Fun Haver, and RTR Vehicles continues to elevate the experience for Ford enthusiasts everywhere. Their presence brought excitement, inspiration, and a glimpse into the future of performance driving, reminding everyone why Carlisle remains one of the premier automotive gatherings in the country.
For the thousands of fans who witnessed the action firsthand, it was more than just another weekend it was a celebration of Ford performance, drifting culture, and the people who keep the automotive community thriving.
Written by | Chadwick Lear
Ben Hobson RTR Vehicles Driver