Ghostly Ferrari Formula Car Finally Caught After Six Years on the Run
For six years, Czech police were haunted by a phantom racer in a scarlet “Ferrari” who taunted patrol cars, special units, and even helicopters—always vanishing without a trace. The chase finally ended not with a dramatic pursuit, but with a stop for fuel.
The legend of the “Prizračný jezdec,” or ghostly driver, became folklore on Czech roads. Since 2019, the mysterious speedster had outwitted every attempt at capture, until a vigilant gas station attendant recognized the machine and tipped off authorities. Police trailed the car all the way to the driver’s home, bringing an end to the saga.
On closer inspection, the fabled “Ferrari F1” was no Formula One car at all, but a Dallara GP2/08—once a stepping stone to the top tier of racing. Its performance, however, left little to be desired: more than 600 horsepower, zero to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, and a top speed beyond 320 km/h. Against such numbers, it was little wonder patrol cars and helicopters came up short.
The driver was identified as 51-year-old Milan Vratny, a former policeman turned businessman with ventures ranging from agriculture to consulting. Brought in for questioning, Vratny refused to explain his actions or admit guilt. The case now rests with the courts.
Under Czech law, the penalties sound modest for a man who inspired a myth: fines between 240 and 480 euros and the loss of a driving license for six to twelve months. Yet for years he was regarded as the country’s own Michael Schumacher, a phantom who made the police look powerless. That legend, at least, will endure long after the fuel stop that finally betrayed him.
