Next step for Deegan is Renault UK Clio Cup after making his debut earlier this year

The Clio Cup is widely regarded as one of the most competitive tin-top categories in the country. So to enter the series mid-year, having not tested the car at all is a bold move. That’s what Shayne Deegan did at Snetterton.

Unsurprisingly, that first weekend was a struggle. He qualified 16th and 18th before taking a best finish of 15th.

“I got some alright results but would’ve liked better,” admits Deegan. “It was nothing like what I’ve experienced before. All the drivers are competitive and the cars are difficult to drive – I had to change my driving style completely. The braking of the cars is different, you have to brake in a certain way and that takes a bit of getting used to.”

Deegan was hoping to make a step forward for the next round at Rockingham but had a difficult qualifying and started 18th. However, the race was held in very wet conditions and Deegan soon climbed up the order.

“I made up nine places,” says Deegan as he finished ninth. Throughout his career, Deegan has always been strong in the wet and he attributes that to his grounding in autograss. “It helps with car control – you know how to straighten it up when the car slides and it gives you no fear,” he says.

His rivals next season could have plenty to fear though as he plots an extensive testing programme to get ready for a full campaign in the series in 2017 after buying a Clio. Deegan is aware that it will be tough but says: “It’s a real challenge and I like a challenge!”