The mystery of the phantom racing car driver that gripped the Czech Republic for six years has finally come to an end. Police arrested a 51 year old man at his home in Buk after tracing him from a sighting at a petrol station on the D4 motorway. When officers found him he was still dressed in full racing gear complete with helmet. The car he drove had long been mistaken for a Ferrari Formula 1 machine but was in fact a Dallara GP2 a single seater built for the feeder series to Formula One.
Since 2019 the driver had eluded capture by hiding his identity with a helmet while speeding past stunned motorists. He gained notoriety after viral footage showed the racing car weaving through everyday traffic at frightening speeds. Despite repeated police efforts he always managed to escape turning himself into something of a local legend and a global curiosity.
This time however authorities launched a coordinated operation using multiple patrol cars and a helicopter to track the vehicle back to his residence. Initially he refused to leave the car and even accused officers of trespassing before finally being taken in for questioning. Reports say he declined to speak to investigators.
The case now moves into administrative proceedings with the driver facing a potential fine worth thousands of Czech crowns and a driving ban. His offenses include operating a vehicle not approved for public roads as it lacked headlights indicators license plates and safety certification. For many residents the arrest ends a bizarre chapter that mixed thrill with concern about road safety.
The legend of the phantom racing car may be over but the story has left behind an unforgettable tale of audacity risk and a reminder that highways are no place for Formula style adventures.