The 22 year-old driver from Úvaly u Prahy, which is east of the Czech capital Prague, has an exceptional career in karting behind him and is very highly rated on the kart scene. 2016 will see a completely new challenge for Jiří but the confident youngster has so far proved a shrewd and adept learner and is ready to take on what will –quite literally – be his biggest challenge in motorsport to date.

Jiří, tell us a little about your racing career to date?

“I started my career when I was 10 years old in karting. I was racing for two years in the Czech Republic and then I moved to United Kingdom where I was racing for Zip Kart racing team, which was where both Lewis Hamilton and Gary Paffett started racing. After two years in the UK I moved back to Czech Republic and signed as a factory driver for MS Kart racing team in Rotax Max senior category.

After 2011 when I achieved world number seven in the Rotax Grand Finals, three titles in Czech championship and third place in golden wheel press competition I moved back to UK as a factory driver for Formula K UK. In 2012 we reached European number eight position and Rotax Max International open placing fourth. After this year I stopped and now I start with the Buggyra International Racing System team.

What attracted you to FIA ETRC. Was it always something you had aspirations to do?

“I think FIA ETRC is the only proper racing in big motorsport and probably the nearest category to karting in the way of pure racing. The Buggyra team is one of the most successful and most professional teams in Europe, so I am very excited for the coming year. I have also known Adam Lacko since I was six years-old, so it all works great for me.”

How much testing will you do ahead of Spielberg?

“I did some test sessions last year, this one and we have the last one ahead of us (at Most) before we head to Spielberg. However I hope I will adapt quickly. David (Vršecký) said that I did pretty well for a beginner, so let’s see how it goes.”

Has your training and preparation changed?

“Well I started to run and swim. I also spend some time in the gym.”

 What aims do you have for the season ahead with Buggyra?

“I think this season is mainly a trial for me because everything is new and different. I will be happy if I can go faster and faster the whole season. It´s a great challenge to be part of because there is no one better than Buggyra especially in the Czech Republic. I don ´t expect we will defend the title in the teams, but I believe I will earn some points as well and do my best to follow in David´s footsteps.”

What do you enjoy doing away from racing? Any hidden talents in other sports?

“Well I work a lot beside the racing because I own a company with my father and fiancée. I really enjoy skiing and swimming, but motorsport is my first love.”

ETRC 2016 calendar dates: 

 
FIA ETRC 2016 Season Entrants List:
 

ETRA Media contacts:
Sam Smith & Alex Birley
E mail:  media@etra-promotion.com
Website: www.fiaetrc.com