First stop Austria for ERC-bound Mareš

The talented Czech has entered the Jänner Rallye, which hosted the ERC opener between 2012-2015, in a Škoda Fabia Rally2 Evo.  

Although Mareš has yet to formally announce his plans for 2024, he’s indicated his desire to mount a full-season ERC campaign for the second year running.  

While the Jänner Rallye is unlike any other event on the ERC calendar due to the likelihood of snow and ice on the Tarmac stages, it represents an opportunity for Mareš to build his competition experience ahead of the new ERC season getting under way on Rally Hungary from 12 - 14 April.  

“I can't wait for my premiere on the Jänner Rallye,” Mareš said. “I’ve been to watch this beautiful race many times. It looks like some snow will come over the weekend.”

Mareš is among several drivers on the Jänner Rallye entry list with recent ERC experience.   

Simon Wagner, a podium finisher on Barum Czech Rally Zlín last season, is the number one seed as he bids for a fourth consecutive Austrian title.   

Having upgraded to a Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, Martin László, a points-scorer in the ERC in 2023, will continue his alliance with new co-driver Viktor Bán, who partnered Miklós Csomós on three ERC rounds last year.   

Chris Ingram, the 2019 European champion, is also entered in a Fabia RS Rally2, while ERC stalwart Jarosław Kołtun is set to compete in a Ford Fiesta Rally2.