Miroslav Mikeš has entered his second season in the F4 CEZ this year. Competing for the Czech team JMT Engineering, he achieved his first podium finish and has high ambitions for the race in Most. He considers this circuit his home track, where he has logged the most kilometres.
In Slovakia, you were among the fastest drivers and achieved your first podium finish. How significant is this milestone in your career?
I came close to a podium finish last season and finally managed it. I’m pleased I earned it after starting from seventh place.
There are three events left in the season, two of which will be held in Most and Brno. Do you feel the presence of Czech fans? Does racing on home ground motivate you?
The presence of Czech fans is definitely supportive and, of course, motivates me to achieve the best possible results.
You excelled on the Most circuit last year. What’s your secret to performing so well there?
The Most circuit is my home track, where I’ve done the most testing. As for my secret? That will remain a secret… (laughs).
You and Max Karhan are currently battling for third place in the driver standings, as well as for the position of the best Czech in the championship. You also know each other from karting. How intense is the rivalry between you?
Karhan is just another competitor to me. My current goal is to get into the top three in the overall championship standings.
How do you manage the combination of racing, stress, training, and of course, your studies?
I’m fortunate that my school supports my racing, and due to my good academic results, I can focus calmly on preparing for races. I don’t feel stressed because I enjoy racing.
What prompted you to start karting and pursue motorsport?
It was a coincidence that got me into racing when Josef Kališ, a guru of Czech karting, noticed me at the Kart Centre and kick-started my racing career, for which I’m grateful.
How important is karting experience for racing in F4? Are karts a crucial training ground for F4?
Karting experience is definitely helpful as it develops quick reflexes, track orientation, and racing mindset in drivers.
All F4 CEZ races are streamed live and can be watched afterwards. Do you review these races to understand your competitors and their strategies for position battles?
We analyse previous races with my racing engineer and coach. We use the race streams to focus on my mistakes. The streams also provide insight into my competitors’ racing strategies.
What are your career ambitions? Which series or races attract you?
Given my age, I see racing in the F4 CEZ series as a stepping stone to competing in GT4 touring car races and eventually GT3.
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