Czech 'Phantom F1 Driver' finally caught after years on the run

Formula One - Spanish Grand Prix - Barcelona-Catalunya racetrack, Montmelo, Spain
Reuters

Czech police have arrested a 51-year-old man long suspected of driving a high-speed racing car on public motorways, a case that has captured public attention since 2019.

The car, a red Dallara GP2/08 styled like a Ferrari Formula 1 vehicle, was last spotted on the D4 motorway, prompting authorities to trace it to a property in Buk, about 60 km southwest of Prague. Video footage showed the car stopping for petrol before the driver was apprehended.

The suspect initially refused to exit the vehicle at his home, arguing that police were trespassing, but later complied and was taken in for questioning, remaining silent. His son described the police response as “disproportionate” for what he called a minor traffic issue.

Authorities first investigated the so-called “phantom F1 driver” in 2019, when helmeted images and videos circulated online. Identification had been difficult due to the helmet, preventing earlier action.

The man now faces fines for driving a vehicle without headlights, indicators, or number plates, and may have his licence suspended.

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