ERC
Impressive 11-place rise confirms Matulka’s ERC progression
Jakub Matulka completed his second full FIA European Rally Championship campaign with his level of progression clear to see.
After placing 17th in the 2025 standings, Matulka ended 2026 sixth in the final ranking having banked a breakthrough podium during a highly encouraging season.
Following his run to 11th place on Rally 6 Cities North of Portugal last month, the ORLEN LOTTO Rally Team driver, 26, said: “It was a very tough rally but, at the same time, an extremely valuable experience. We had the chance to test ourselves in conditions that were genuinely extreme at times. There were some good moments and some more difficult ones but, above all, we saw just how much more experience and mileage we still need on gravel. That’s definitely one of the areas we want to focus on strongly as we prepare for next season.”
Matulka completed his second ERC campaign in sixth place
© ERC
The 2025 Polish champion, who was co-driven by Damian Syty, continued: “We finish the rally in 11th place and the championship sixth overall. I think that’s a good result, especially when you consider some of the mistakes I made during the year.
“At the same time, we had some very strong moments, particularly at Rally Poland and Barum Czech Rally Zlín, where we showed good pace. I can also see a big step forward in our driving and in the overall level we reached during the season.
We had some very strong moments, particularly at Rally Poland, where we showed good pace
Runner-up spot in Poland was an ERC career high for Matulka
© ERC
“Now we’ll take a short break before starting preparations and planning for next season. A huge thank you to our partners for their support, to the entire team for all their hard work and to all the fans who backed us throughout the year.”
Matulka, a former alpine skier, was nominated for the ERC Most Improved Driver of the Year award for his efforts during the 2026 season. As well as finishing a standout second overall on 82nd Rally Poland, Matulka impressed by completing the top five on Barum Czech Rally Zlín aboard his Michelin-equipped Škoda Fabia RS Rally2.
