The 2026 Drift Masters season roared into life in Italy with an all-Avondhu showdown stealing the headlines, as Killavullen’s Conor Shanahan and Castletownroche’s James Deane went head-to-head in a dramatic final at Autodromo Vallelunga.
In a season opener that felt more like a championship decider, the two North Cork drivers delivered a final that showcased the very best of Irish drifting on the international stage, with Shanahan ultimately emerging victorious after a tightly fought battle.
From the outset, the weekend set a relentless pace on a brand new Italian circuit that punished even the smallest mistake. Vallelunga’s high-speed layout and technical demands forced drivers to manage tyre wear, precision and consistency from the very first runs.
Both Shanahan and Deane progressed through a series of high-pressure battles to reach the final stages, with their paths underlining why they are among the standout names in global drifting.
The final itself delivered exactly what fans expected. Deane opened strongly with a commanding lead run, while Shanahan stayed locked in throughout, maintaining pressure and proximity. On the return, a slight drop in pace from Deane created the opening Shanahan needed, and he capitalised to take victory in the first round of the 2026 campaign.
Speaking after the event, Deane reflected on a strong start to the season, praising his team’s work in returning the Mustang RTR to the podium in P2, despite tyre wear affecting his final chase run. He also congratulated Shanahan on the win and Piotr Więcek on securing third place.
Shanahan, meanwhile, described the result as a strong start to both championships, paying tribute to his team, sponsors, family and supporters after a challenging weekend that included mechanical issues, including gearbox concerns, throughout the event.
Despite the setbacks, he delivered when it mattered most, securing victory in the opening round of the 2026 Drift Masters season and making an early statement in the title race.
