Historic forms can be seen competing. Photo by Pille Russi
The HRX Estonian Grand Prix Grand Prix will be held at the Porsche Ring in Pärnu from 1 to 12 August to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Estonian Formula One.
The first Estonia Formula was completed in 1958, the last in 2001. Over 44 years, the factory on Hobujaama Street in the centre of Tallinn produced 26 Estonia model cars and 40 modifications, a total of 1,331 models. The production figure ensures Estonia's place among the world's top ten model car manufacturers for many years to come.
At the Estonian Grand Prix, you can meet the builders and drivers of Estonia's Formula One cars, see historic Formula One cars both in the pits and in their most natural environment, the race track. There are 14 competitors registered for the Estonian Grand Prix with historic models.
One of them, the Estonia 21-10, will be driven by Jaak Kuul, a multiple Estonian champion and cup winner, who has been competing with Estonia Formula One cars since 1983, and is the champion of the HAIGO series of German historic cars. "My first Formula in the 1980s was the Estonia 20, and it was also the first '20' to be built by the factory," said Kuul. "Toomas Napa and Avo Soots had previously competed in the same car."
Currently, Kuul Sport, run by Jaak Kuul, maintains four historic Estonia Formula One cars, with a fifth under restoration. "On the one hand, keeping the Estonias running has become easier over time, on the other hand, more difficult. There are much better materials available, much better tools to use, much more precise machine tools, but at the same time it is all much more expensive. But I still think that the historic formula class is the most advantageous in the racing world."
In addition to the earlier work of Estonian engineers, the Estonian GP will also showcase the latest. The 610-horsepower supercar Kalana will also be showcased at the region's biggest car and motorcycle race on 11-12 August at the Porsche Ring. The event is also part of the Finnish and Estonian championship programmes.
On Friday 11 August, there will be mostly free practice and qualification, but also three competition starts from 18.30. On Saturday, 12 August, the races will start at 10.00, with a concert by Reket at 12.30, followed by the opening ceremony at 13.15. After that, the races will continue until 20.00 hrs. More information: https://estoniangrandprix.com/
