Young race driver Ivan Prantner from Czech Republic used to follow motorsport as a fan, but when he had the opportunity to try a racing car, he immediately knew he wanted to spend as much time behind the wheel as possible. Last year, he completed his first racing season and now he has moved up to the Clio Cup Bohemia with JMT Racing Engineering.
Ivan, what brought you to racing?
Motorsport fascinated me for many years, but as a child, I played ice hockey and only followed racing as a fan. In the autumn of 2023, I got injured, and at the same time, I had the opportunity to try Lotus on a circuit. That experience thrilled me so much that on the same day, I met Mr. Koldinský from JMT Racing, and we arranged my first test in a race car. From the moment I sat behind the wheel, I knew I wanted to dedicate myself to racing. In 2024, I participated in my first season.
What successes have you achieved in your debut season?
I participated in the Carbonia Cup series, where I finished third overall in my class. My greatest successes came at the Slovakiaring, where I finished third, and at the Pannonia Ring, where I won. Within the series, I also raced on circuits in Most, Brno, and Lausitzring.
What made you decide to try the Clio Cup Bohemia?
What I like most about the Clio Cup is that all the cars are identical, which leads to many exciting battles on the track and an ever-growing grid. These are the main reasons I decided to participate in the Clio Cup Bohemia series.
Will you compete in the full season?
Yes, I plan to take part in the entire season and I’m looking forward to all the circuits, but especially to Red Bull Ring and Balaton Park.
How are you preparing for the new season? Have you had the chance to test the new Clio on the track?
During the winter, I spend a lot of time on a racing simulator, and I also work out and go running in my free time throughout the year. Yes, I’ve already had several testing days with the Clio on circuits in Most, Brno, and Slovakiaring, and I also competed in one Carbonia Cup race with it.
What are your goals for this year’s Clio Cup season? What do you want to achieve?
This season, I want to gain as much experience as possible, as it will be my first racing season with the new car. I’ll strive for the best result in every race.
What are your long-term plans in motorsport? Where do you see yourself in a few years?
My long-term plan is to participate in endurance racing, and I hope to see myself in the GT4 category in the future. My dream race, as for many, is the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Foto: Dušan Belica
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