The 22-year-old from Czech Republic took part on a rally for the first time in 2018 and made his Junior ERC debut at ORLEN 78th Rally Poland last June, finishing fifth in the Pirelli-equipped young driver category.
Polasek tackled a further three Junior ERC rounds and completed his campaign with fourth place in class at his home event, Barum Czech Rally Zlín.
He’s back for more in 2022, again teaming up with co-driver Katerina Janovská to pilot a Ford Fiesta Rally4 run by leading Czech team Orsák Rallysport, who also run Erik Cais among others.
“The goal for this season is to gain more important experience and get closer to the top position in Junior ERC,” said Polasek. “The ERC is a good opportunity to get experience from international rallies and compete with the best European drivers in 2WD.”
Polasek will start his campaign at next month’s Rally Islas Canarias, which takes place from 12-14 May. However, a return to Rally Poland is unlikely due a clash with his final school exams.
“I am really looking forward to Canarias,” Polasek continued. “I was there in autumn 2020, so I know the surroundings, but I will be competing there for first time. Always when you are going to such exotic destination it is a promising and strong experience.”
Polasek and Janovská will get some pre-season practice when they contest Rentor Rallysprint Kopná from 29-30 April. WRC2 star Cais is the top seed for the all-Tarmac event.
Meanwhile, Swedish pair Victor Hansen and Victor Johansson are planning to make their Junior ERC debuts at Rally Islas Canarias, also competing in a Fiesta Rally4.
“After four seasons in the Swedish championship we feel that it’s time to take a new step forward and Junior ERC seems like the right move,” said Hansen. “Of course it's hard to compete against the professional teams with our family team, but we will try to
put up a good fight with our hard work, spirit, commitment and lovely support from sponsors.”
Co-driver Johansson added: “It's going to be a real adventure to compete in these countries and we will hopefully make some fine results, even if it’s going to be very tough.”
The FIA Junior ERC Championship for Rally4 and Rally5 cars fitted with Pirelli tyres takes place on six rounds of the ERC with drivers counting their best five scores. A Junior WRC prize drive – supported by the FIA, M-Sport Poland, Pirelli and WRC Promoter – awaits the eventual champion
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