Mateo Tihi, a 22-year-old polytechnic student and member of the Riteh Racing Team, has spent the last few months in the workshop developing an electric race car for Formula Student Alpe Adria, which takes place from August 18 to 23 at the Bugatti Rimac test track.
While most of his peers use the summer months for vacation, 22-year-old Mateo Tihi from Duga Resa spends his days in the workshop. He is currently in his third year of the undergraduate polytechnic program and actively participates in the Rijeka-based team Riteh Racing Team, where he has been diligently contributing for several months to the creation of one of the most technically sophisticated student race cars in Croatia.
His efforts will be showcased at the international competition Formula Student Alpe Adria, which takes place from August 18 to 23, 2026, at the Bugatti Rimac test track in Mičevec near Velika Gorica. This is the largest edition of the competition to date, bringing together teams from as many as 26 countries.
Mateo's passion for cars did not begin with speed or design, but with the question of what lies beneath the bodywork. "Cars didn't attract me just for the driving or the looks. What interested me most was what's hidden under the body, how everything works, and how much knowledge, precision, and effort it takes to make every detail work flawlessly," Mateo Tihi told Radio Mrežnica.
It was precisely this curiosity that led him to the Riteh Racing Team, which he joined during his second year of studies. "From the very beginning, it seemed like the ideal project for anyone who wants to learn through practice and work on a real car. Looking back now, my only regret is that I didn't join earlier," he adds.
In the development of the new electric race car, Mateo is responsible for components that play a crucial role in safety and power transmission. He participates in the production of mechanical transmissions and is currently working on the braking system and chassis construction. "Each component brings its own challenges and requires all departments to work as one. That's why this project isn't just about developing a car; it's also a school of teamwork, communication, and collaborative problem-solving," he emphasizes.
For him, Formula Student represents much more than just a competition. "Being part of the Riteh Racing Team is an opportunity for continuous learning, improvement, and working with people who share the same passion for cars and engineering. Formula Student Alpe Adria is a place where we can showcase the results of our work and gain experience that will benefit us throughout our careers."
However, Mateo stresses that the greatest value is not just the new knowledge and technical solutions. "The greatest value of the entire project is the friendships, team spirit, and experiences that stay with you long after the competition ends."
The visitor program runs from August 20 to 23, 2026, when the public can watch the most exciting dynamic disciplines, the premiere of autonomous race cars, the traditional Alumni Cup, and numerous activities from partners and sponsors.
