My Chronicles
Every journey is unique, and mine has been shaped by a passion for speed, a dedication to excellence, and countless unforgettable experiences in the world of motorsport. This timeline offers a glimpse into the key moments that have defined my career – from the early days of karting to the challenges and triumphs of Formula racing. Each step, each victory, each setback has contributed to the driver and the person I am today. Dive into these milestones and relive the highlights.
My Chronicles
Every journey is unique, and mine has been shaped by a passion for speed, a dedication to excellence, and countless unforgettable experiences in the world of motorsport. This timeline offers a glimpse into the key moments that have defined my career – from the early days of karting to the challenges and triumphs of Formula racing. Each step, each victory, each setback has contributed to the driver and the person I am today. Dive into these milestones and relive the highlights.
MY FIRST FERRARI
My parents claim this electric Ferrari was a gift, but I suspect they were just tired of pushing a stroller! Either way, I loved the freedom it gave me to explore, even if my top speed was only 4 km/h. I'm pretty sure I mastered wheelspin, understeer, and oversteer in this beast – at least in my imagination!
MY PLAYGROUND AT AGE 3
The Koszalin circuit holds a special place in my heart. It's where I first truly discovered the joy of driving. With the track practically empty during the week, I had the freedom to explore different lines, push the limits of the kart, and experiment with new techniques. From sunrise to sunset, dry to wet, I honed my skills, learning the nuances of the track and the art of car control.
FIRST TROPHY, ENDLESS MOTIVATION
Even though I didn't have any direct competitors in my age group, this showrun at the European Championship in Koszalin felt like a major victory. Sharing the podium with established champions was an incredible honor. The roar of the crowd, the weight of the trophy – it was all incredibly motivating and inspiring. It solidified my passion for racing and my desire to one day stand on the top step as a champion.
TRAINING ACROSS EUROPE
My early years in karting were all about pushing my limits and seeking new challenges. I traveled to tracks across Europe, like the challenging Pottendijk circuit seen here, testing my skills against other drivers and constantly striving for faster lap times. Each new circuit brought unique obstacles and opportunities for growth, fueling my passion and competitive spirit.
FROM HOBBY TO COMPETITION
Earning my racing license marked the beginning of a new chapter. I was no longer just a kid who loved karting; I was a competitor, a racer ready to test my skills against others. Those early club races were filled with adrenaline, excitement, and a few hard-earned victories. The feeling of accomplishment, shared with my parents, solidified our commitment to the sport and fueled our dreams of bigger and better things to come.
YOUNGEST FACTORY DRIVER & CHAMPIONSHIP RUNNER-UP
At the age of 10, I became the youngest factory driver in history for Mega 1, a renowned kart chassis manufacturer. It was a dream come true, allowing me to develop my own custom-built kart, the MIREX, with chassis number 0001. This kart later served as the blueprint for a mass-produced model, specifically designed from a Bambini driver for Bambini drivers. During this incredible season, I also secured a remarkable second-place finish in the highly competitive ODKM Championship Bambini class.
HEIDENAU TYRE FACTORY DRIVER
My partnership with Heidenau Tyres was a game-changer for both of us. I received a container full of tyres to test, meticulously documenting the nuances of each compound and providing valuable feedback. This intensive testing process helped Heidenau develop high-performance, long-lasting tyres for the Bambini class, both for dry and wet conditions. In turn, I gained invaluable knowledge about tyre management, setup optimization, and the crucial role tyres play in maximizing performance.
VICE-CHAMPION: GERMAN KARTING CHAMPIONSHIP
Never satisfied with staying in my comfort zone, I sought out new challenges in the German Karting Championship. Competing in the highest and most demanding series my license allowed was always my goal, and this was the natural next step. This highly competitive series pushed me to my limits, and while I didn’t clinch the championship title, I proved my ability to compete at a high level.
STEPPING UP TO THE JUNIOR CLASS
My desire to race against the best often meant competing against older drivers. In 2003, I made the strategic decision to join the Dutch Karting Championship, stepping up to the Junior class a year earlier than possible in Germany. This challenge proved to be the perfect stepping stone, pushing me to adapt and refine my skills. A podium finish in my first year was a testament to my dedication and determination.
JOINING FORCES AT CRG HOLLAND
My experience as a factory driver for Mega 1 and Heidenau proved invaluable when I joined CRG Holland. I was able to contribute significantly to the development of the new Road Rebel chassis, working alongside talented drivers like Nico Hülkenberg, Stef Dusseldorp, and Renger van der Zande. This period at CRG was a masterclass in teamwork, pushing me to refine my technical skills and consistently deliver outstanding performance. These efforts ensured that the factory remained at the forefront of the leading chassis manufacturers.
TEAM SUCCESS IN THE GERMAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Our focus at CRG Holland was on winning the German Karting Championship, just as Nico Hülkenberg had achieved the previous year. Despite a strong start, early misfortune in the season hindered my own championship aspirations. I shifted my focus to supporting my teammate, Nigel Melker, in his title bid. We achieved our team goal, and I still managed to secure two victories, a second-place finish, and a third-place finish, ultimately ending the season a close third in the championship standings.
OFFICIAL FORMULA BMW JUNIOR DRIVER
Winning the Formula BMW Driver Selection Program in 2006, out of a pool of fifty talented drivers in Valencia, was a pivotal moment in my career. This victory not only granted me access to BMW's prestigious education and coaching program but also awarded me a prize of €50,000, paving the way for my entry into the world of Formula racing. The Formula BMW Driver Selection Program was a testament to BMW's commitment to nurturing young talent in motorsport, and this opportunity provided me with invaluable training, financial support, and a clear path to pursue my racing aspirations.
OFFICIAL RED BULL JUNIOR DRIVER
My performance in pre-season testing and driver evaluations caught the attention of Dr. Helmut Marko, leading to a pivotal moment in my career: being selected for the prestigious Red Bull Junior Team. Joining this elite group of young drivers was an incredible honor and a testament to my hard work and dedication. The program provided invaluable support and guidance, granting me access to top-level training, resources, and opportunities that significantly shaped my development. On the track, the expertise and dedication of Peter Mücke and his team proved equally crucial, maximizing my performance and contributing to my success in Formula BMW. I am deeply grateful for the support and belief that both Red Bull and Peter Mücke placed in me during this formative stage of my career.
ROOKIE PODIUM
The 2007 Formula BMW Germany season was a rollercoaster ride of triumphs and setbacks. I celebrated strong podium results but also learned valuable lessons from the inevitable mistakes that come with developing as a young driver. The experience proved invaluable, ultimately securing a top-ten championship finish and a podium position in the Rookie standings.
PIT LANE PARK WARSAW
Burning rubber, roaring engines, drifting donuts, lightning-fast pit stops – Pit Lane Park Warsaw was a week-long celebration of everything we love about racing, bringing the thrill of motorsport directly to the heart of Poland. Sharing my passion with the fans, alongside F1 stars Jörg Müller and Robert Kubica, was incredibly rewarding. The week was a whirlwind of activity: interviews, demonstrations, and fan interactions filled every moment. But seeing the spark of excitement in the eyes of Polish fans made it all worthwhile. Together, we brought the world of Formula racing to life, inspiring a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
MOTORSPORT DOCUMENTARY: A DECADE ON AIR
Being chosen to participate in a Nick TV documentary about motorsport was an incredible opportunity. The series aimed to inspire young people to explore different sports, and I was thrilled to share my insights and experiences as a racing driver. It was a chance to showcase the dedication, skill, and teamwork involved in motorsport and, hopefully, ignite a passion for racing in the next generation.
STRONG DEBUT IN FORMULA 3
Stepping up to the German Formula 3 Championship was a significant challenge, and I embraced the opportunity to learn and grow in a highly competitive field. Despite some unexpected competition from additional engine manufacturers, I adapted quickly and secured a podium finish in the Rookie championship, landing sixth overall in the standings. This successful debut proved my ability to compete at a higher level and provided invaluable experience for future seasons.
COMPETING AGAINST THE BEST IN THE WORLD - FORMULA 3 EURO SERIES
Securing a seat in the highly competitive Formula 3 Euro Series was a significant achievement. I was determined to prove myself against a grid filled with some of the world's most talented young drivers, including Jules Bianchi, Valtteri Bottas, Esteban Gutierrez, Jean-Karl Vernay, Sam Bird, Marco Wittmann, Alexander Sims, Nico Monien, Andrea Caldarelli, Brendon Hartley, Mirko Bortolotti, Renger van der Zande, Nick Tandy, Edoardo Mortara, and many more. My initial pace during pre-season testing was promising, consistently placing me within the top five, and I was confident in my ability to challenge for strong results. Unfortunately, a combination of unforeseen circumstances, including the withdrawal of a key sponsor, forced us to cut the season short. This experience reinforced the fact that motorsport is a team effort, and success relies not only on individual talent but also on a strong foundation of support and resources.
DOMINATING THE FORMULA 2 TEST IN VALENCIA
Despite a challenging season, I ended the year on a high note with a dominant performance at the Formula 2 post-season test in Valencia. As one article aptly described, "Nobody could really keep up: Mirocha ultimately had a 0.5-second advantage.” This strong result, achieved shortly after my 18th birthday, boosted my confidence and reignited my determination to succeed at the next level.
FOUR RACES, FOUR PODIUMS: A WINNING STREAK
Joining Addi Schlösser's Formula Renault team mid-season in 2010 proved to be a winning combination. In just four races, I achieved a remarkable string of successes: two victories, two additional podium finishes, a pole position, and two fastest laps. These races were a testament to my driving skills and the team's hard work, showcasing what we could achieve together. It was a memorable and rewarding experience, reminding me of the pure joy of racing.
CONQUERING THE TEST AND BREAKING RECORDS
The Formula 3 test day with Frederic Vasseur’s championship-winning ART team was a pivotal moment in my career. It was a chance to prove myself against top competition, and I rose to the challenge. Not only did I outperform the other drivers, but I also surpassed every driver in the team’s history – from Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas to Nico Hülkenberg, who held the previous record – and shattered the absolute lap record at Magny-Cours. This dominant performance opened the doors to GP2, the ultimate proving ground for aspiring Formula 1 drivers.
ONE STEP CLOSER TO THE DREAM
My debut season in GP2 was a testament to my determination and resilience. While I was still gaining experience in qualifying, I consistently showcased my race pace, battling my way from the back of the grid into the top 10 in almost every race. My goal was to learn and improve throughout the weekend, delivering strong performances on race day. A top-eight finish was consistently within reach, and I often found myself battling for those positions. Unfortunately, a few unfortunate technical issues, like those in Istanbul, Monaco, and Barcelona, prevented me from consistently achieving those goals. Despite these setbacks, I knew I was on the right track, gaining valuable experience and proving my ability to compete at this level.
A TEMPORARY PAUSE: RECHARGING FOR THE FUTURE
Sometimes, the most strategic move is to take a step back. Faced with both a physical setback and sponsorship challenges, I made the difficult decision to withdraw from the remainder of the GP2 season. This temporary pause allowed me to regroup, reassess my goals, and plan my next move in motorsport.
SHARING EXPERTISE: FORMULA 1 ANALYST FOR POLSAT
Even when I wasn't behind the wheel, I was still deeply involved in the world of motorsport. My role as a Formula 1 expert for Polsat allowed me to engage with Polish fans, explaining the nuances of racing strategy, driver psychology, and the technical challenges faced by the teams. It was a privilege to share my passion and knowledge, bringing Formula 1 closer to a wider audience.
FIRST PLACE & POLISH PRIDE
This victory at Brands Hatch was more than just a personal achievement; it was a chance to give back to those who had believed in me from the beginning. Standing on the top step of the podium, hearing the Polish national anthem, filled me with a sense of pride and gratitude. It was a victory for my team, my sponsors, and everyone who had supported my journey in motorsport.
DOMINATING THE SECOND HALF OF THE FORMULA 2 SEASON
The 2012 Formula 2 season was a breakthrough year, marked by consistent podium finishes and a string of impressive victories. With one win, two second-place finishes, three third-place finishes, and a pole position, I demonstrated my speed and consistency throughout the season. This strong performance, especially my dominance in the latter half of the championship, was the perfect preparation for another shot at GP2.
SIX MONTHS OF SPEED: PROMOTING LTE WITH POLSAT
My collaboration with Polsat provided a unique platform to promote their innovative LTE network. The campaign went beyond the traditional branding on my car and race suit, extending into the realm of television advertising. The commercial, which aired for six months, showcased the speed and reliability of Polsat’s technology, leveraging my association with high-performance motorsport to create a memorable and impactful message for a wider audience across Poland.
FINE-TUNING FOR 2013: GP2 TEST IN JEREZ
The Jerez test provided a valuable opportunity to evaluate potential teams and showcase my abilities ahead of the 2013 GP2 season. The focus was on long runs and race simulations, and my performance was consistently strong. Even with a late tire change, I managed to achieve a competitive lap time, finishing just a fraction of a second off the top runners.
FORMULA 1 PRE-CONTRACT UNFULFILLED
Just four weeks before the start of the 2013 GP2 season, my Formula 1 pre-contract, which would have seen me race in GP2 in preparation for a 2014 F1 debut, fell through. A second sponsor, alongside Polsat, failed to deliver on their commitments, leaving me with a devastating setback. It was a harsh reminder that even with talent and dedication, external factors can derail the best-laid plans. This unexpected turn of events forced me to accept a difficult reality and re-evaluate my path in motorsport.
EXPANDING HORIZONNS: EXPLORING NEW OPPORTUNITIES
The years following were a period of exploration and growth. I engaged in discussions with several renowned racing series and partners, earning invitations to numerous tests. While each opportunity required a financial commitment that I couldn't meet at the time, I gained invaluable experience testing a variety of cars, including the powerful Porsche Supercup machine seen here. These experiences broadened my skill set and deepened my understanding of different racing disciplines.
A VALUABLE ASSET FOR TEAMS AND DRIVERS
While continuing to pursue my own racing aspirations, I also expanded my expertise into driver coaching and technical support. My years of experience at the highest levels of motorsport allowed me to provide valuable insights to teams and drivers, helping them optimize performance and accelerate their development. By sharing my knowledge of car setup, data analysis, and race strategy, I could often help drivers find the perfect balance within a few laps, saving valuable time and resources for the team.
CONQUERING THE NORDSCHLEIFE: PERMIT A
Taming the Nordschleife has always been a dream for any racing driver, and thanks to Phoenix Racing, I was able to make that dream a reality. Earning my Permit A license and gaining valuable experience on this demanding circuit broadened my horizons and added a new dimension to my motorsport capabilities.
INTENSIVE TESTING: MASTERING THE AUDI R8 GT3
Participating in a tire development test with the Audi R8 GT3 provided an exciting opportunity to delve deeper into the world of GT racing. It was a thrill to push this powerful machine to its limits, contribute to the advancement of tire technology, and gain firsthand experience with the nuances of GT car performance. This experience proved invaluable as I concurrently pursued other activities within motorsport, including driver coaching and technical support. The intimate knowledge I gained of the Audi R8 GT3 allowed me to provide expert guidance and contribute to the success of the teams and drivers I worked with.
MERCEDES-AMG GT3/GT4: A WINNING PARTNERSHIP
My time with Zakspeed and ZVO Racing was a period of intense collaboration and shared success. I utilized my expertise to refine car setups, analyze data, and guide drivers of all levels, from seasoned professionals to promising rookies. The victories and podiums we achieved together were a testament to the power of teamwork and a source of immense pride. It's a chapter in my career I'll always cherish.
RACING IN THE USA
The races in Miami Homestead offered a thrilling change of pace from my GT commitments, bringing me closer to my Formula racing roots. This experience marked my first time competing in the USA, and I was fortunate to celebrate several victories on the challenging Homestead-Miami Speedway.
FROM PADAWANS TO CHAMPIONS: MIAMI VICTORY
The victory in Miami Homestead wasn't just a personal achievement but a shared triumph for the entire team, including my "Padawans," Gabriela Jilkova and Robert Haub. Together, we formed an unstoppable force, conquering the competition and achieving victory in almost every race. It was a testament to our hard work, teamwork, and the power of shared ambition.
INDIAN RACING LEAGUE: AN UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITY
A last-minute driver change presented an incredible opportunity to compete in the Indian Racing League as a PRO driver, a unique and exciting series that pairs professional drivers with local young talents, including a female driver in each team. The diverse tracks, ranging from modern circuits to old-school layouts, provided a thrilling challenge. I was honored to be invited to participate in this innovative series and experience the vibrant motorsport culture of India.
TEAMWORK TRIUMPHS IN HYDERABAD
I was thrilled to partner with Gabriela Jilkova in the Indian Racing League. The highlight of our campaign was undoubtedly the races on the challenging Hyderabad street circuit, where we showcased our adaptability and racecraft, securing two second-place finishes and a third-place finish. As last-minute replacements, these results were a testament to our individual skills and the strength of our teamwork.
VALENCIA VICTORY: CONQUERING THE FERRARI CHALLENGE
Valencia seems to bring out the best in me! During the GT Winter Series, I had the opportunity to step into a Ferrari Challenge car for a single race, and standing on the top step of the podium was a thrilling experience. This victory showcased my adaptability and my ability to extract maximum performance from any car. I'm grateful for the trust and collaboration with both the driver and the team, which made this opportunity possible.
Journey Continues: Building a Winning Team of Success
This timeline captures some of the most significant moments in my motorsport journey, but it’s just a glimpse into a story that continues to unfold. Every victory, every podium, every challenge overcome has been a team effort, a testament to the power of collaboration and shared ambition. I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my partners, sponsors, and the countless individuals who have contributed to my success along the way. As I look to the future, I’m excited to continue building a team of passionate and dedicated individuals who share my drive to excel. If you’re interested in becoming part of this journey, in contributing to future chapters of this story, I invite you to reach out and explore the possibilities. The best is yet to come.