Death of Karel Loprais

The news came through his nephew Aleis Loprais, participating in the 2022 Dakar in the truck category. Karel Loprais died this Thursday, December 30 at the age of 72. The Czech, a simple assembly line worker for Tatra, became a test driver, which allowed him to compete in the Paris-Dakar from the 1980s. An event in which he won six times, the Paris-Dakar. Dakar, between 1988 and 2001.

“A man who generally spoke little about himself has left us. Nevertheless, with his actions, his successes, his approach to life, but also with a shy smile, he won the respect, respect and hearts of his colleagues, rivals, motorsport fans”, said Aleis Loprais.

In 1994, he even managed to finish sixth in the general classification in all categories, right in the middle of the car prototypes. A feat which still remains unprecedented for a truck in this rally-raid. Sign of his fame, he was declared the winner of the Czech racing driver of the century vote in 2000. In 2017, the President awarded him the Medal of Merit.

AUTO editorial staffhebdo sends its condolences to the family, loved ones and friends of Karel Loprais.