Buckle up, racing fans! The thrill of high-speed competition is about to hit new heights as Martin Doubek confirms his electrifying return to the NASCAR Euro Series, promising more heart-pounding action and championship dreams for 2026. But here's where it gets controversial: Is there such a thing as being too loyal to one team, or does Doubek's unwavering commitment set a standard for dedication in motorsport?
Martin Doubek has just inked a fresh contract extension with Hendriks Motorsport, ensuring he'll be tearing up the tracks through the entire 2026 season. This seasoned Czech driver isn't just sticking around—he's gearing up to compete in both the PRO and OPEN categories if the opportunity arises, showcasing his versatility and unquenchable passion for the sport.
With an impressive tally of over 100 races in the OPEN class and more than 70 starts in the PRO division under his belt, Doubek has firmly established himself as one of the most battle-hardened drivers in the NASCAR Euro Series. To put that into perspective for newcomers, the PRO class often features less experienced or amateur racers building their skills, while the OPEN class is the big leagues where top professionals duke it out for glory—think of it like progressing from a local league to the NBA. The 30-year-old star has been a constant presence in the championship since 2015, with only two other drivers in the series having started even earlier: Fabrizio Armetta, who began in 2013, and Gianmarco Ercoli from 2014.
Despite clocking over a decade in European NASCAR racing, this native of Litomyšl in the Czech Republic still burns with an insatiable appetite for triumph. He's hungrier than ever for victory laps and championship hardware. That's precisely why Doubek has chosen to extend his partnership with Hendriks Motorsport into 2026, where he'll keep commanding the wheel of the iconic No. 7 Ford Mustang.
"I'm absolutely delighted to be returning to the NASCAR Euro Series," Doubek shared excitedly about his renewed deal. "This marks my 12th season, and naturally, I'm aiming for even more titles and victories. Hendriks Motorsport is simply the finest team I could ever wish for. I truly want to bring pride to my team boss, Roy Hendriks."
With two OPEN title wins under his belt—in 2021 and 2024—Doubek has played a pivotal role in propelling Hendriks Motorsport to the pinnacle of success, making them one of the most acclaimed squads in the history of the NASCAR Euro Series. Now, with Doubek officially locked in, this powerhouse Dutch team is poised to pursue additional accolades and championships.
As the record holder for the most OPEN victories with 17 triumphs, Doubek finished as the runner-up in the 2025 season, just behind Thomas Krasonis. He fought tooth and nail throughout the year to reclaim his crown, and although he came up short, it only fueled his determination. He's vowed to return even stronger, with the goal of bringing that coveted trophy back to the Czech Republic. And this is the part most people miss: His "I'm confirmed until 2058" quip wasn't just a joke—it revealed his profound affection for the NASCAR Euro Series car, the vibrant paddock life, and the cutthroat rivalries that define Europe's top touring car competition.
Doubek is fully committed to the PRO series but is eager to take on double duty by competing in OPEN as well, with the final decision expected to solidify during the off-season. His career is littered with unforgettable highlights in NASCAR Euro Series lore, including being the only driver to secure the OPEN championship twice so far. He kicked off his journey at Raceway Venray, preferring the excitement of oval racing before venturing into road courses.
Notably, Doubek even provided some exhilarating "taxi rides" for Czech President Petr Pavel at his home circuit, Autodrom Most, and later coached the head of state as Pavel took the driver's seat himself. Think of it as a real-life moment blending high politics with high-octane adrenaline—proof that racing can transcend the track. Doubek is always a surefire bet for those jaw-dropping highlight reels, and in 2026, he's coming back not for fun, but to dominate and lift that gleaming trophy once more!
But let's stir the pot a bit: Some might argue that allowing one driver to compete in both PRO and OPEN classes could create an unfair advantage, potentially overshadowing younger talent. Is this the future of racing, or does it dilute the competition? What do you think—should drivers like Doubek be celebrated for their longevity, or is it time for fresh faces to shine? Share your thoughts in the comments below; we'd love to hear if you agree, disagree, or have your own take on this fiery debate!
Source: NASCAR Euro Series
