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Vít Smejkal, who runs the Expres Auto Racing team alongside Petr Čížek, had to sit out the first half of the TCR Eastern Europe season due to business commitments. But now, things have changed – and he’s ready for a comeback with his Cupra TCR car.
Before the season began, Smejkal announced he wouldn’t be able to take part in the opening rounds of 2025, but made it clear that missing his home race at Autodrom Most was out of the question. With the TCR Eastern Europe series heading to Most in just a few weeks, he’s now deep into preparations.
“I’m really looking forward to it. A lot of friends, business partners, and especially my family are coming to support me. I’m always happy when they show up – the whole paddock is full of familiar faces,” says Smejkal. “Of course, that adds a bit of pressure because I want to deliver the best result I can. Last year, I was running in second place when I got hit by another driver and ended up off the track. That’s racing, though. Hopefully this time luck will be on my side.”
Smejkal has already completed two tests in the car this year and says he’s feeling confident.
“We’ve been working on the setup, getting a better feel for the car, and trying to improve my driving. There’s still room for progress, but I’m enjoying it – and that’s what matters most.”
After a months-long break, though, Smejkal admits that getting back up to race speed won’t be easy.
“It’s definitely going to be tough. I’ve been following the championship and the pace is really high. I’m working hard to make sure I’m ready for the race in Most. As for expectations, I just want to enjoy myself, race hard, and have fun,” he adds.
Smejkal will be back on the grid at the fourth round of the TCR Eastern Europe series and he’s not stopping there: “I’d also like to race at Slovakia Ring and Brno,” he says of his tentative plan.
