CONFIRMED: Rip Ride Rockit Closing at Universal Orlando in September 2025

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Hey Universal Vacationers! On December 27, 2024, Universal Orlando announced that Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit will permanently close at Universal Studios Florida in September 2025 to make way for a new experience. With this iconic roller coaster is on its last legs, slated to be torn down and replaced by a brand-new, adrenaline-pumping coaster. What can we expect from Universal as a potential replacement for Rip Ride Rocket. Let’s dive into the details around Rip Ride Rockit closing.

As previously reported below, the replacement for Rip Ride Rockit will likely be a version of the Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift coaster currently in development. According to Len Testa and Jim Hill of the Disney Dish Podcast, the new coaster will have a new load area either at the end of New York Street or potentially leveraging the current Fast Furious Supercharged queue. If the Fast Furious Supercharged queue is used, it is expected this attraction would also close.

The new coaster will leverage some of the footholds of Rip Ride Rockit, and follow a large portion of the current path. One rumor is the coaster could have two launch points. This would be similar to the two launch points used in the Velolicoaster over at Islands of Adventure. Where the second launch is done while the coaster is still in motion, not at a complete stop. Based on the Fast & Furious movies, this second launch could be to simulate the use of NOS to “supercharge” the car.

It is expected that both the Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood versions of the Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift coaster could open in conjunction when the next installment of the movie franchise hits theaters. The next movie is expected to open in 2026.

Below is the rest of the original article from June 12, 2024, when we reported the Rip Ride Closing and the speculation around a Fast and Furious Hollywood Drift coaster replacing it.

What Could Replace Rip Ride Rockit?

The rumor mill churns with speculation that an Intamin steel launched spinning coaster could take the place of Rip Ride Rockit. This wouldn’t just be any coaster, but a model similar to the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, currently under construction at Universal Studios Hollywood. For Orlando, this proposed coaster might be tailored to fit the unique landscape of the park, offering a different layout due to the absence of Hollywood’s hillside division.

Possible Delays and Design Changes

Universal Hollywood has experienced delays with its Fast & Furious-themed coaster, pushing its debut to 2026. These setbacks could potentially influence the timeline for Orlando’s project, especially as this new ride model from Intamin undergoes further testing and refinement. Unlike typical spinning coasters, the Hollywood Drift model promises thrilling inversions and a top speed of about 73 mph—characteristics that would make it faster and more intense than its predecessors marketed as family coasters.

Location and Themeing Challenges

With Universal Studios Florida’s tight layout between sound stages and other attractions, the new coaster may have to compromise on speed but could still surpass the thrill levels of Rip Ride Rockit. Speculation suggests that the entrance and load station might relocate closer to the park’s New York area, aligning with the existing theme zone for Rip Ride Rocket. This is despite the thematic mismatch with the Fast & Furious franchise predominantly set in San Francisco.

An alternative load location could be near the existing Fast & Furious Supercharged attraction. This would keep with the themeing of movie franchise. Additionally, the existing attraction has an extensive queue, that is rarely ever used to its potential.

Why a Fast & Furious Attraction Makes Sense for Orlando

Despite its underwhelming performance and tepid guest reception, Fast & Furious Supercharged remains the sole representation of the franchise at Universal Orlando. Bringing a new, more exciting Fast & Furious attraction could reinvigorate the franchise’s presence in the park. Given the franchise’s significant value to Universal and the current attraction’s limited operational hours post-pandemic, a fresh attraction could be a strategic move to enhance guest experiences and ratings.

Conclusion

While we await official word from Universal on whether or not a Rip Ride Rockit closing happens, the speculation itself is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of theme parks, driven by the desire to offer newer, more thrilling experiences. Whether Rip Ride Rockit is closing soon or not, one thing is certain: Universal Orlando Resort’s future plans will continue to spark excitement and speculation among its visitors. Stay tuned, coaster fans—big changes could be just around the bend!

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