During the Special Stage 9, Desinić 3, on the Leg Two of 12. Kärcher Rally Kumrovec, reckless civilian driver, despite the warnings of the Safety Marshalls, has entered the route of the Special Stage by car after breaking the tape for traffic closure and driving in the direction opposite to the direction of the Stage, thus endangering his and the safety of the competitors.
In just a few seconds on the track, he almost caused a frontal collision with the crew of st. no. 33 Glasenčnik/Pistotnik. Tragedy was averted by the bravurous reaction of the rally driver who, by letting the rally car onto the lawn by the side of the road, avoided a collision. Just a few seconds later, the civilian vehicle was removed from the route of the Special Stage, police were called, who determined that the vehicle was driven by an intoxicated person and took further action.
We would like to stress out that as organizers of the 12. Kärcher Rally Kumrovec we have taken all the prescribed measures by the FIA and the Croatian Auto and Karting Federation that are the condition for the organization of rally events. Also, all consents and permits of the local government bodies and the police were obtained for the event. At the Desinić special stage, which took place on a 4.18 km section, in accordance with the Safety Plan, more than 50 Safety Marshalls and Stewarts were assigned whos quick reaction prevented the tragedy. The local population was informed on time about the event dates and road closure through printed notifications, billboards and posters, special leaflets that were delivered to mailboxes, through the means of public information and through the competition website www.rally-kumrovec.com.
We hereby as event organizer condemn the irresponsible behaviour of the individuals which is endangering safety and lives of the athletes, marshalls and spectators. We would also like to apologize for this whole situation, inconvenience and the shock to the crew of Mitja Glasenčnik and Matej Pistotnik from AMTK Velenje. Please note that this is a separate incident and that such situations never happened before at our events in Kumrovec. We appeal to the police and the judiciary to take such and similar offenses as a serious threat to the lives of athletes, judges and spectators that is inadmissible in any civilized society and to harshest punish those who cause them with their behaviour.
Best regards,
Organizing Committee of the 12. Kärcher Rally Kumrovec
