Jan Hlousek will co-drive 2013 European champion Jan Kopecky in the FIA European Rally Championship this season.
They will race in a Rally2-specificaton factory Skoda Fabia R5 Evo with the ERC-counting Barum Czech Rally Zlin part of the new duo’s schedule from 28-30 August.
Hlousek said: “I look forward to a new challenge and working in a large team. I experienced a professional approach to the rally with Filip Mares, but this will be a completely different experience.
“I am aware that, in addition to the work in the car itself, there will be high demands not only on physical training, but also on marketing and media activities.”
The 27-year-old replaces Pavel Dresler, who stood down from co-driving duties at the end of last year.
Last year, Hlousek guided Filip Mares to the FIA ERC1 Junior Championship title so Mares is seeking for a replacement driver for his programme of ERC events in 2020. Mares thanked Hlousek for his success: “I want to say big thanks to Jan for the journey we have done and all the races we have won together. Jan is a professional and one of the best co-drivers in our country.”
Kopecky and Hlousek will team up together for the first time on Satuday in the MOGUL Test Rally in the Czech Republic. The event features three stages and has been organised in full compliance with Czech government health and safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
