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A limited edition Zippo lighter inspired by the manga "Initial D" has been released through the goods brand CAMSHOP.JP. Only 50 units are available at 27,500 yen each. The lighter features a black nickel finish with laser-engraved mountain pass battle scenes and a serial number.
Aoshima announced the Daiki Ninomiya EK9 Civic Type R as the next entry in its 1/24 Initial D plastic model series. The kit, based on the late-model car from the series, includes new molds for the body, hood, and headlights, plus dedicated aero parts and wheels. It is a snap-fit, glue-and-paint-free assembly. Release is set for November 2026 at 4,840 yen.
SEGA FAVE will hold the official national tournament "Public Road Strongest Deciding Battle 4th" for "Initial D THE ARCADE." The tournament includes three categories: KING OF DRIVER 4th (2-car battle), Toge Battle Royale 4th (4-car battle), and MASTER ATTACKER 4th (time trial). Regional qualifiers run from August 2026 to January 2027 at seven locations across Japan, with a final tournament in March 2027. A first tag tournament, Double Ace CUP, is scheduled for November 2026. Lifeguard sponsors the event.
Amazon's Manga Weekend Sale offers a 50% point-back on all 48 volumes of Shuichi Shigeno's car manga Initial D, limited to June 26-28, 2026. The sale brings the effective price to roughly half the 38,016 yen list price. The article also notes the AE86's appearance in Forza Horizon 6 with a water-cup Easter egg.
Avail will release a line of Initial D merchandise at its nationwide stores and online from June 6. The lineup includes a 3-piece set with a T-shirt, leisure bag, and waist cushion, plus key cases, pouches, and sunglasses. Items feature the Fujiwara Tofu Shop (Private Use) and RedSuns logos.
The drift racing game Drift86, released in 2019 by RewindApp, is free on Steam until June 4. It features over 30 maps, over 40 car models including an Initial D-style 86, and multiplayer. RewindApp is also developing a new arcade drift game, Akina, scheduled for 2026 with over 80,000 wishlists as of March.
Bill Wise, known for English dub roles including Bunta Fujiwara in the Initial D: Legend trilogy, Hayato Jin in Getter Robo: Armageddon, and Knuckles in the 1996 Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie OVA, has died at age 61. His death was reported by the Austin Chronicle on May 5, with his agency and a friend confirming the news earlier that week.