Universal Orlando Resort has officially revealed its next major attraction, delivering thrilling news for adrenaline enthusiasts and automotive fans. The upcoming addition, named Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, is scheduled to launch at Universal Studios Florida in 2027. This high-speed rollercoaster aims to immerse riders directly into the intense action synonymous with the blockbuster film series.
A High-Octane Experience
Participants will board individual vehicles designed to simulate the exhilarating feel of 360-degree 'drifting' manoeuvres. The coaster promises heart-pounding acceleration, reaching speeds of up to 72 miles per hour. Notably, the ride will feature a dramatic 170-foot vertical 'spike' that propels guests approximately 60 metres into the air, offering panoramic views over the Universal CityWalk area.
This new attraction will take the place of the former Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster, marking a significant upgrade in the park's lineup. Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is set to join Universal Orlando Resort's renowned collection of coaster experiences next year. However, it will first debut as an outdoor rollercoaster at Universal Studios Hollywood later this year, giving California visitors an early taste of the action.
Replacing Supercharged
To accommodate this exciting development, Universal has confirmed the permanent closure of Fast & Furious - Supercharged in 2027. This decision has sparked considerable discussion among theme park enthusiasts on platforms like Reddit, where fans are sharing their reactions and speculating about potential replacements for the Supercharged ride.
One enthusiast commented, 'Universal is really elevating their coaster game. With Hulk and Velocicoaster at Islands, Stardust at Epic, and now this new F&F ride sounding epic, I'm eagerly anticipating it.' Another user expressed hope, saying, 'This sounds like the perfect outcome. Hopefully Supercharged is replaced with a Ghostbusters dark ride.'
Further agreement came from a third fan, who stated, 'I hope Supercharged is replaced with something more exciting… I'd hate if they just rethemed it to something like the Knight Bus from Harry Potter. They should bulldoze the ride and build something entirely new.' A fourth individual added, 'As someone not particularly fond of the Fast and Furious franchise, I'll gladly ride a themed coaster over that awful screened monstrosity known as Supercharged. I'm confident whatever replaces it will be an improvement.'
Speculation Surrounding Wicked
Beyond the Fast & Furious announcement, rumours are circulating about another major franchise potentially joining Universal Orlando Resort. Fans of the musical Wicked are increasingly convinced that the cult favourite could be the theme park's next significant installation.
Originally brought to life on Broadway in 2003 and later debuting in London's West End in 2006, Wicked has grown into one of the world's most successful musicals. The story follows a misunderstood, green-skinned girl who evolves into the Wicked Witch of the West. Two decades later, the franchise has experienced a resurgence as a global phenomenon, largely due to the blockbuster two-part film adaptation.
Film Success Fuelling Rumours
The first Wicked film, released in November 2024, achieved impressive box office results, grossing $758.7 million globally. Its sequel, Wicked: For Good, has already surpassed the $450 million milestone in just its third week of cinematic release. This commercial success has been complemented by extensive merchandise releases from major retailers and specialist brands, including Primark, Lush, Funko, and LEGO, which have launched exclusive collections.
These factors have naturally led to speculation about a potential Wicked-themed world at Universal. The sprawling Florida theme park currently features five distinct themed areas based on popular franchises: Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, How to Train Your Dragon, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park.
Since the sequel's release, dedicated fans have been scrutinising every potential clue hinting at a Wicked world. Observations range from film director Jon M. Chu's appearance in an Epic Universe documentary to pop-up Wicked experiences within the parks themselves.
While Universal has not yet announced any official plans for a new themed land, the speculation continues to build. Could a Wicked Universe truly be on the horizon? Only time will tell, but the combination of a major new rollercoaster and persistent rumours ensures that Universal Orlando Resort remains a focal point of excitement and anticipation for theme park enthusiasts worldwide.
