Praga R1 Dominates International Circuits
2023 has been a year to remember for Praga, a name that’s now echoing through the halls of motorsports across the globe. This year, the Praga R1, a marvel of automotive engineering, has left its mark on racetracks in nine countries, clinching race wins and securing a trove of silverware in both sprint and endurance races.
USA: A Spectacular Start
The year kicked off in the United States, where Praga’s impact was immediate and impressive.
Danny von Dongen, a Praga R1 driver, opened the season with a stunning eight consecutive race wins, a feat that saw him dominate at Sebring, the FARA Miami 500, and the Homestead Miami Spring Challenge. His streak included setting the fastest laps in four consecutive races, a clear testament to both driver skill and the R1’s exceptional performance.
In Miami, Aaron Weiss continued the winning streak, clinching first place in the two-hour FARA Spring Challenge Enduro race. Meanwhile, Peter Buczynsky, alongside other Praga R1 owners, showcased their skills in various events throughout the year, bringing home an impressive tally of wins and podium finishes.
UK: Praga R1 Stirs Up the Prototype Scene
On UK soil, the Praga R1 made a splash in the prototype racing scene.
Competing at iconic tracks like Silverstone, Snetterton, and Brands Hatch, the Praga R1 drivers, including Al Boulton, Chris and Ed Bridle, and Shane Kelly, displayed formidable racing prowess. Highlights included Shane Kelly topping the Praga driver standings in the ZEO Prototypes Series and setting the fastest lap at Silverstone.
Notably, YouTube sensation and sim-racer Jimmy Broadbent, now an R1 owner, showcased his real-world racing chops in the Time Attack Championship. He impressively clinched second place in the Pro Extreme Class and first place in the Prototype Class, proving his mettle on the track.
Czech Republic: Endurance and Sprint Success
Back in the Czech Republic, Praga Racing Cz took a different approach, focusing on endurance races.
Czech driver Tomáš Vojtěch notably performed exceptionally at the ARC Endurance 6-hour race and the 8-hour race at Brno Circuit, achieving podium finishes and setting the fastest lap at Most. In the sprint racing arena, Roman Vaca and Tomáš Vojtěch continued the winning streak, securing top positions at the Slovakiaring.
Australia and the UAE: Continual Triumphs
Down under, Praga Racing ANZ made its mark in the Australian Prototype Series. British driver Miles Lacey made a memorable debut, securing a podium finish in Adelaide. In the UAE, the 2022/23 Gulf ProCar Championship saw Praga R1 owner Ian Roberts dominate the Dubai Autodrome with multiple race wins and fastest laps.
A Year of Automotive Excellence
As Praga gears up for the production of its €1.36 million Bohema hypercar, the brand celebrates a year of phenomenal racing achievements.
From the deserts of Dubai to the historic circuits of the UK, Praga’s global influence in the racing world is undeniable. With a combination of world-class engineering and top-tier driving talent, Praga has not just competed but dominated, marking 2023 as a year of speed, skill, and success.
