Martin Vaculik won the last meeting in Rzeszow to clinch the title of European Speedway Champion. It was the first time under a new formula that the European Champion was found. By scoring an immaculate 18 points the cool Slovak achieved what seemed impossible before the meeting, when he was trailing Championship leader, and home track favourite, Nicki Pedersen by 5 points.
“It didn’t come easy because all the meetings are tough competition, not to mention the added tension when it comes to the deciding round. The whole day just clicked for me. I had a great engine which worked great for the track, but what was more significant was how focussed I was on my racing. I rode with a clean head, I had time to focus on the races. I wanted to take it easy and relax, and everything just went perfectly, and I got maximum points”, says the newly crowned European Champion.
Even with one race to go, well wishers started to congratulate Vaculik on winning the title. Martin knew he needed one more point to make absolutely sure, which was why he was very reluctant to accept the accolades. “Yes I didn’t want that happening, because I hadn’t won the title at that stage. Nothing is over until you cross the finish line, and victory is secure, then you can start to celebrate”, says Martin.
Despite warming to the fast Slovakian during the competition the Rzeszow fans levelled a lot of criticism after a photo was posted to the internet, where Vaculik points to a fan wearing a t-shirt that offends the Rzeszow club and its fans.
“From what I remember that situation took place during a local derby meeting between my club Unia Tarnow, and Stal Rzeszow”, explains Martin, “Probably someone just asked for a photo, and I am not a person who wants to cause any offence because I rode for Rzeszow and have very good memories from that time – just as I do from the last meeting of the SEC, where I received a lot of cheers and support from the local fans”.
“For me, local derby matches are very exciting, full grandstands, great atmosphere, but it’s not like we want to kill each other on the track because there is rivalry between the two cities. I would like to emphasize that I respect the supporters in Rzeszow, and once again I apologize for any offence caused. I'm always positive about every club and the fans, so I don’t want judged based on one photo”, ends a remorseful Martin Vaculik.
