AMK Pačejov confirms historic transfer

The management of Automotoklub Pačejov in the AČR is pleased to announce the conclusion of a strategic partnership unprecedented in the history of Czech motorsport. On February 13, 2026, during Rally Sweden, an official contract was signed between representatives of AMK Pačejov and the Japanese driver of the Toyota Gazoo Racing factory team, Takamoto Katsuta.

AMK Pačejov Chairman finalizing the last details of the contract

Based on this agreement, Katsuta will represent the Pačejov club as an elite driver effective April 1, 2026. Within the team structure, he will complement the existing driver line-up and work closely with Václav Hostaš Jr.

The Result of Long-term Diplomacy

The realization of this transfer is not a random occurrence, but rather the culmination of more than three years of effort. A key role in the negotiations was played by the Chairman of AMK Pačejov, Miroslav Žitník, who personally oversaw all talks with Takamoto Katsuta’s management team. Initial contact and mutual interest in cooperation date back to testing activities organized by AMK Pačejov in recent years, which the Japanese racer attended as part of his preparations for the World Championship.

The decisive turning point in the entire process occurred during last year's Rally Japan. It was in Katsuta's homeland that the intense diplomatic offensive reached its peak, with the active involvement of Invelt Rally Pačejov Clerk of the Course, Pavel Štípek. Thanks to his personal commitment and detailed negotiations directly at the World Championship event venue, the contract took on concrete outlines and technical parameters, ultimately leading to the successful confirmation of the partnership.

Clerk of the Course Pavel Štípek at negotiations in Japan

"We are proud that the persistent work of recent years has begun to pay off. AMK Pačejov is the first club in the Czech Republic to boast the engagement of a driver of such caliber," stated Club Chairman Miroslav Žitník. "I firmly believe that this connection will bring new opportunities and significant progress in Takamoto's career, while for our club, it serves as a confirmation of our position on the European stage."

A sample of the contract at Rally Sweden

Logistical Support and Driver Adaptation

The agreement also includes the temporary relocation of Takamoto Katsuta to the Czech Republic. The driver will reside in the Strakonice district for a limited period to maintain close contact with the club's technical support and to fully integrate into local conditions.

Takamoto Katsuta himself does not hide his enthusiasm for this new professional chapter:

"I am very much looking forward to my engagement in Pačejov. During previous tests in this area, I was impressed by the professionalism of the local organizers and the specific character of the tracks. It is an honor for me to become part of a team with such tradition. Furthermore, I am sincerely looking forward to life in the South Bohemian Region – between demanding races, I will be able to enjoy the tranquility of the region and the renowned Strakonice beer, about which I have heard only the best."

Future Outlook

The collaboration between Katsuta and AMK Pačejov starts symbolically at the beginning of the second quarter of 2026. With this move, the club declares its ambition to elevate local motorsport to a global level while offering a unique platform for sharing know-how between world-class leaders and talented Czech drivers, such as Václav Hostaš Jr..

Details regarding the first joint start and a detailed schedule of test drives in the Pačejov region will be published in the coming weeks.

Despite the fact that the Pačejov organizers currently do not have a general sponsor for the upcoming 47th edition of Rally Pačejov, they do not hesitate in the slightest and are boldly embarking on entirely new ventures. The club management sees Takamoto Katsuta’s engagement as a unique opportunity to promote their rally globally and attract attention that extends beyond regional borders. The organizers firmly believe that this historic transfer and the associated media coverage will help them secure a stable budget and a strong partner base for all future editions of the Pačejov competition.

Vice-chairman Václav Štípek – image on the left– at one of the first meetings

Press Department of AMK Pačejov in the AČR