Czech President Petr Pavel surprised Formula 1 fans during the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix after spending the race weekend not as a VIP guest but as an accredited sports photographer capturing the action from the sidelines.
The 64-year-old head of state traded the traditional presidential experience for a camera, joining professional photographers around the Hungaroring as he documented one of Formula 1’s biggest race weekends. Wearing an official media vest and carrying his own professional photography equipment, Pavel blended into the media pack, drawing admiration from fans and fellow photographers alike.
His appearance quickly became one of the most talked-about moments away from the racing, with images of the Czech president crouching trackside and photographing speeding Formula 1 cars spreading across social media.
Unlike many world leaders who attend Formula 1 races from exclusive hospitality suites or the VIP paddock, Pavel opted for a very different experience.
Using his private vacation time, the president secured official FIA media accreditation, allowing him to work alongside professional motorsport photographers during the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend.
He spent hours moving around designated photography zones with his camera in hand, carefully framing shots of drivers navigating the Hungaroring’s demanding corners.
Aside from a discreet security detail accompanying him throughout the circuit, Pavel integrated seamlessly with the regular media contingent covering the event.
He also met several prominent figures during the weekend, including FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar, before returning to his photography duties.
Pavel’s appearance at the Hungarian Grand Prix was far from a publicity stunt.
Long before assuming office as President of the Czech Republic, the former Chairman of NATO’s Military Committee had built a reputation as a passionate motorsport enthusiast and accomplished amateur photographer.
Over the years, he has photographed some of the world’s most prestigious racing events, earning respect within motorsport circles for both his dedication and technical ability behind the camera.
His motorsport portfolio includes legendary endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the toughest competitions in world motorsport.
He has also photographed the gruelling Dakar Rally, where drivers and riders navigate thousands of kilometres across harsh desert terrain.
Pavel’s interest extends to American stock car racing through NASCAR events in the United States, while he has also spent time photographing MotoGP and World Superbike races in Brno, Czech Republic.
His photographs have earned praise not only from motorsport enthusiasts but also from photography lovers, demonstrating that his work goes beyond simply documenting races.
Pavel has also used his photography to support charitable causes.
Earlier this year, his images from the 2025 Dakar Rally were showcased at Prague’s National Technical Museum, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the iconic rally through the president’s lens.
The exhibition highlighted dramatic moments from one of motorsport’s most physically demanding competitions while showcasing Pavel’s eye for detail and storytelling through photography.
Beyond exhibitions, he previously published a personal photography book featuring many of his favourite images from motorsport events around the world.
The book was later auctioned, raising approximately €30,000 for charitable organisations supporting children, elderly people and single-parent families.
