Slovak rally driver disqualified in Sweden for sexual gesture at official

Slovak rally driver Róbert Kolčák was disqualified from a European Rally Championship round in Sweden after making a sexual gesture toward a race official. The jury deemed his conduct met the criteria for sexual harassment. Despite the harsh penalty, Kolčák denied any wrongdoing.

Slovak rally driver [Róbert Kolčák](/politicians/robert-kolcak) was disqualified from the European Rally Championship round held in Sweden over the weekend after he made a sexual gesture directed at a race official. The event's jury concluded that his behaviour met the criteria for sexual harassment, leading to immediate disqualification from the competition.

Despite the severity of the punishment, Kolčák showed no remorse and insisted he had done nothing wrong. His reaction drew further criticism from within the motorsport community, with many observers calling the attitude as troubling as the act itself.

The incident has sparked broader discussion about conduct standards in rally motorsport and the protection of officials and marshals on and around the competitive stages. Race officials and stewards are considered key figures in ensuring the safety and integrity of events, and harassment directed at them is treated seriously under championship regulations.

The European Rally Championship has not yet issued a statement regarding any further disciplinary proceedings beyond the on-event disqualification, though the case may be reviewed at a higher level given the nature of the misconduct.