(26.08.2019) Zapletal is by far one of the most experienced drivers among ORLEN Baja Poland entrants. Thanks to his many international and national outings he is well known among Cross Country rallying fans.

Miroslav Zapletal comes from Prerov, a city with 44 000 of inhabitants, located in Moravia region, just about 30 kms north of Zlin, which is considered as capitol of rallying in Czech Republic. 53-year old Czech is a multiple Polish champion. He clinched this title in 2018, 2016 and 2013 season. Moreover, Zapletal has Czech and Hungarian titles under his belt. Just like many other Cross Country drivers he fulfilled his dream of competing in Dakar Rally, which he eventually finished in 7^th place, back in 2009. This was the best result for Czech driver, until it was beaten in 2019 by Martin Prokop and Jan Tomanek who came 6^th in this ultimate Cross Country marathon.

Zapletal connection with Poland is not only about his trophies. For many years Czech driver was co-driven by Poles – Bartek Boba, Bartosz Momot and Maciej Marton. With the latter, he scored his best result in ORLEN Baja Poland. In 2013 edition, Zapletal and Marton finished 3^rd overall, just 14 seconds adrift of the 2^nd place. On their way to this achievement, Czech-Polish duo used Hummer H3 Evo rally car. This T1 group machinery, built by Zapletal’s team, was powered by a 4-litre Toyota engine. In 2019 Zapletal will tackle special stages of Baja Poland with Ford F150 Evo pick-up, with Slovak Marek Sykora on co-driver’s seat.