Max Coates’ impressive maiden Renault UK Clio Cup campaign has been recognised by the prestigious British Racing Drivers Club (BRDC), who have awarded the 22 year old a place on their coveted Rising Stars scheme.
Coates has been a front-runner from the off in the Clio Cup with Ciceley Motorsport, taking a pole position on only his second weekend at Donington Park, which he’s since followed up with four podium finishes including a maiden win at Croft to lie third in the championship standings.
“It is an honour to have been asked to become a BRDC Rising Star. I am delighted that the best of British racing drivers have recognised my potential and want to help me turn my passion into a profession,” said Coates.
“The Renault UK Clio Cup is allowing me to start on that ladder to success and I couldn’t be doing it without the support of my sponsors and the Ciceley team. This season has already been fantastic and this accolade is something very special.”
Coates won’t be the only driver in the Rising Stars programme with Clio Cup connections, with the Yorkshireman joining fellow series front-runner Ant Whorton-Eales on the scheme, as well as the top two in the 2015 series Ash Sutton and Ash Hand.
“The BRDC is delighted to welcome Max to the Rising Star scheme. The Rising Star Scouts had been monitoring Max’s recent progress and with his very impressive performances in the 2016 Renault UK Clio Cup, it was certainly the right time to invite Max to come and speak with us,” commented BRDC Assistant Club Secretary Luke Evans.
“We are confident that he has the potential to be a very successful racing driver and it is hoped that Max’s introduction to the Club will assist his development. As he continues on his projected career path, it is hoped that he will achieve the results he requires to become a Full Member of the BRDC and we wish Max the best of luck on his journey.”
The Renault UK Clio Cup returns to action next weekend at Rockingham (27/28 August), but prior to that Coates is heading to Knockhill this weekend to race in the Celtic Speed Mini Cooper Cup at Knockhill, competing in the Courier Connections guest car previously raced by BTCC stars Aiden Moffat and Adam Morgan amongst others.
