Škoda Motorsport celebrates 125 years. Thank you

Motorsport has been an integral part of the Škoda brand for 125 years. Throughout this time, it has always helped not only to build better production cars and win sporting trophies, but above all to entertain spectators lining special stages around the world. This anniversary video is therefore dedicated primarily to our fans. 

Being present alongside a rally special stage is always a unique experience filled with emotion and speed. For generations, we have seen the same enthusiasm and joy in the faces of spectators – a feeling that continues to drive us forward. In truth, it makes little difference whether you were standing on the dusty outskirts of Paris in 1901 as Narcis Podsedníček passed by on the Laurin & Klement Slavia B motorcycle, or five years later at the first automobile race of Václav Klement somewhere between Vienna and Graz. The emotions are the same as those felt at the victorious conclusion of the 2025 WRC2 season in Saudi Arabia, when Škoda Fabia RS Rally2 cars took the entire podium. Pure joy and pride born of passion and victory.

While these early successes – including the legendary result of the Škoda Popular at the 1936 Rallye Monte-Carlo – were primarily intended to demonstrate the reliability and durability of the cars from Mladá Boleslav, the focus later shifted decisively to racing speed. This was where our passion for motorsport came fully expressed itself.

Whether it was the impressive performances of the original Octavia, the legendary appearances of the 130 RS, or the later rally programmes with the Favorit and Felicia, Škoda cars have always generated excitement on rally special stages. Often this was thanks to commitment and an attractive driving style that brought Škoda crews victories coveted by far more powerful rivals. The racing spirit and determination of John Haugland, Václav Blahna, Stig Blomqvist, Pavel Sibera, Roman Triner, and many others have written success deep into our DNA and into the memories of our fans.

It has always been the fans’ enthusiasm and support that propelled us forward – in times of success as well as during periods when we faced seemingly insurmountable challenges. United by our shared passion, we have always returned stronger and more determined to achieve further victories. These arrived with the Fabia S2000 and Rally2/Rally2 evo generations. The first decade of the new millennium marked the beginning of a golden chapter in our history – a chapter into which we poured everything we had learned to date. Fabia became the most successful competition car in the history of the FIA Rally2 category, and the current RS Rally2 generation continues to write this golden story. For us, Fabia is not only a symbol of competitive success, but above all of the joy of victory and the unforgettable experiences shared alongside rally special stages. It represents a passion born of everything we have achieved together with our fans.

Škoda also rewards fans for this enthusiasm. Not only through performance on the stages, but with cars for everyday use. Alongside standard production models, Škoda offers motorsport-inspired Monte Carlo versions for a number of models, and dedicated RS performance versions for others. The RS designation itself is derived from the term rally-sport.

125 years is a significant anniversary. However, one of the first lessons motorsport teaches you is never to rest on your laurels. Celebrating success is important, but the future is always more important still. This winning streak is therefore far from over – and for that, we thank you all.