American media wrote about drifting on Sophia Square in Kyiv

One of the most popular (and oldest) automotive publications in the USA dedicated an article to the scandalous drift in Kyiv. Motor Trend magazine expressed its opinion on the events and actions of the company Red Bull, which found itself at the center of the scandal.

Below is a roughly verbatim translation with the main meaning of the post:

“Red Bull, the energy drink company that gives you wings, conducts many creative events and promotions, ostentatiously showcasing their off-road vehicles, racing and drifting cars, piloted by skilled professionals. Red Bull also does what Red Bull does best – creates buzz in some cool, but forbidden locations, for fun and because it’s possible. Red Bull flaunts its status and wallet to gain proper permission to access any locations it wants, right?

As it turned out, not always. Recent stunts at Sophia Square in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, seemed to cause an uproar on social media, with officials accusing Red Bull of illegal drifting.

Kyiv authorities were not impressed with the “intolerable act of vandalism” by Red Bull, which they claim was done without approved permission. Since Sophia Square was adjacent to a protected UNESCO historical monument for education, science, and culture, a separate permit was required.

Officials were also outraged by the tire marks that visually marred the yellow clinker paving of Sophia Square; Red Bull assured that it always provides a cleaning crew after filming videos.

In addition to the damage, opponents were concerned that the drift posed a safety threat, as Red Bull did not provide any barriers around the site. Those involved in the video shoot were surprised to see the level of outrage after the drifters left Sophia Square, and police allegedly arrived at the scene where the racers and cars had left after the morning shoot. Rumor has it that those involved were not allowed to leave the facility for a while, and tow trucks were holding the cars.

Of course, every story has two sides, but it seems that Red Bull will have to use its angelic wings (in addition to touching apologies on Instagram) to make amends for this mess.”