Universal Orlando confirms Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster will replace Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit in 2027

A new roller coaster is planned for Universal Studios Florida’s New York area

Universal Orlando Resort has confirmed plans to introduce a new high-speed roller coaster at Universal Studios Florida that will occupy the former footprint of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, the long-running attraction that opened in 2009 and permanently closed on August 18, 2025.

The new ride, titled Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, is scheduled to open in 2027. The attraction will be themed to the Fast & Furious film franchise and is designed around ride vehicles capable of 360-degree rotation intended to simulate drifting while moving along the track.

What is known about the ride system and layout

Project details released with the announcement describe a coaster reaching speeds of up to 72 mph and running on approximately 4,100 feet of track. The design also includes a 170-foot vertical “spike,” a track element that sends the train upward before reversing direction, a feature that is expected to be visible from the CityWalk corridor.

Universal has also previewed that at least one ride vehicle will be styled after a film-referenced car, aligning the new attraction’s visual identity with the franchise’s street-racing theme.

• Name: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift
• Location: Universal Studios Florida (planned for the former Rip Ride Rockit site)
• Opening window: 2027
• Key features described: 360-degree rotating vehicles, 170-foot vertical spike, up to 72 mph, about 4,100 feet of track

How the announcement fits into wider changes in the park

The project represents a significant rebuild of a central section of Universal Studios Florida, replacing Rip Ride Rockit—known for its vertical lift and on-ride music selection—with a newer coaster concept tied to a major Universal film property. Rip Ride Rockit operated for roughly 16 years and was one of the park’s most visible skyline elements.

Universal has also stated that the existing Fast & Furious: Supercharged attraction at Universal Studios Florida is expected to close in 2027. The timing indicates that the franchise’s presence in the park will shift from the current screen-based experience to a roller coaster positioned as a headline thrill ride.

With demolition and site work already underway following Rip Ride Rockit’s 2025 closure, the 2027 opening target frames the project as a multi-year redevelopment of the area.

Timeline

• Aug. 18, 2025: Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit permanently closed
• 2027: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift scheduled to open at Universal Studios Florida
• 2027: Fast & Furious: Supercharged at Universal Studios Florida expected to close