“Pseudo-Schumi” Arrested After Years of Driving Faux F1 Car on Czech Highways
Summary
The 'Phantom F1 Driver,' who for years evaded Czech police driving a Ferrari-painted GP2 car on highways, has finally been arrested, ending a six-year mystery.
The six-year saga of a mysterious racing car speeding across Czech highways has ended with the arrest of the so-called “Phantom F1 Driver” by police. The 51-year-old man, dubbed “Pseudo-Schumi,” was taken into custody on Sunday southwest of Prague, coincidentally on the day of the Italian GP in Monza.
Why it matters:
The arrest marks the end of a long-running cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and a driver who became a cult figure for his brazen high-speed runs. It highlights the challenges police face with anonymous drivers and unusual vehicles on public roads.
The big picture:
- A long pursuit: Since 2019, clips of the red “F1 car” on Czech motorways frequently appeared, always with the driver wearing a helmet, preventing police from confirming his identity.
- Cult status: The driver gained notoriety on social media, with many users celebrating his daring escapades and joking about his nightly drives.
- The vehicle: Initially mistaken for a real Ferrari F1 car, the vehicle is believed to be a Dallara GP2/08, a former GP2 (now Formula 2) car, painted to resemble a Michael Schumacher-era Ferrari.
The details:
- Dramatic arrest: The operation in Buk village involved multiple patrol cars and a helicopter after motorists spotted the notorious car at a gas station near Dobris.
- Standoff: Videos show the man, clad in full racing gear and helmet, remaining in his car while arguing loudly with police, accusing them of trespassing.
- Surrender and silence: After a prolonged standoff, he surrendered but remained silent during questioning.
What's next:
- Legal consequences: The man faces administrative proceedings, potentially including a driving ban and a fine of several thousand Czech crowns.
- Family's defense: His son, Lukas, criticized the police operation, claiming around two dozen patrol cars were involved and denying his father had driven the car at the gas station.
- YouTube connection: Father and son operate the YouTube channel “TrackZone,” where they have regularly published videos of the car.
Original Article :https://f1-insider.com/michael-schumacher-phantom-tschechien-verhaftet-69922/