COE 2026 participants met at the Most Autodrom

The sun, the open track and the first kilometers together. The preparations for the Czech Oldtimer Express 2026 are slowly reaching their final phase – and it was evident in the atmosphere of the meeting on April 7 at the Autodrom Most. After the February evening when the Golden Steering Wheel was announced, the crews met again, this time much closer to the start.

The afternoon was mainly dedicated to circuit driving. The participants had the World Championship track to themselves and everyone enjoyed it in their own way. Some had already tuned their technique and tested the car with which they would set off on the more than two thousand kilometer journey to Italy, while others arrived with modern sports cars and took the opportunity to drive to the fullest. The driving took place in groups according to categories, so everyone found their own rhythm and space.

But the program was not just about driving. The meeting also included a presentation of this year's event - the "La Dolce Vita" route, news and the overall organization. For the first time, the participants got to know in more detail what awaits them on the way from Prague to Italy. The complete starting list was also presented, which this year includes 43 crews and an exceptionally diverse combination of cars, from pre-war uniques to youngtimers.

An important part of the day was also the time away from the track. A joint lunch, refreshments and long discussions at the cars and tables showed the essential thing – Czech Oldtimer Express is not only about driving, but mainly about people. In addition to familiar faces, a number of newcomers are also appearing this year and it is already clear that a very strong and functioning group is being formed.

The program is now heading towards its finale. Before the start, there will be online discussions where the crews will fine-tune the last details. This will be followed by technical inspections and a gala dinner on the eve of the start. Emerson Fittipaldi – two-time Formula 1 world champion and winner of the famous Indianapolis 500, one of the icons of world motorsport – will arrive as a special guest.

And then comes the start itself. It will take place on April 28th at the National Technical Museum in Prague between 8:00 and 10:00 and, as is tradition, it will be a stylish social event to which not only participants but also fans are invited. The next chapter of the Czech Oldtimer Express begins.

$PHOTOS