Škoda motorsport stalwart Pavel Hortek passes away

Pavel Hortek, a respected veteran of the rallying world, has died, leaving behind a legacy defined by his long-standing influence on Škoda’s motorsport operations. His journey in the sport began in 1969 as a competitor, highlighted by a Czech national championship win as a co-driver in 1974 and stints driving the renowned 130 RS.

Transitioning to management in 2001, Hortek became a cornerstone of the Škoda Motorsport programme. As team manager from 2007, he worked alongside Michal Hrabánek to develop the Super 2000 and Rally2 platforms. These efforts proved pivotal in securing multiple WRC2 world titles and cementing the Fabia as a dominant force in its category.

Figures throughout the WRC have paid tribute to his leadership and professional precision. WRC Promoter Senior Director of Sport Peter Thul noted, "Pavel was an institution within the service park and a driving force behind Škoda’s success in modern rallying." Škoda Motorsport acknowledged him as an integral team member who contributed significantly to the manufacturer's long and storied history.