The distinctive red vehicle, in full Ferrari livery, was traced to a property in the village of Buk, around 60km south-west of Prague, following the latest reported sighting. Video footage published on Sunday showed the car travelling along the D4 motorway and stopping to refuel.

The 51-year-old driver was arrested at his home after initially refusing to leave the car. Local media filmed him seated in the vehicle in front of his garage, arguing with officers and insisting they were trespassing on private property. He was eventually persuaded to go to a police station for questioning, still wearing his red racing suit and helmet.

A man identified as his son claimed the police response had been excessive, involving several dozen police cars and a helicopter.

Although widely described as a Ferrari Formula 1 car, the vehicle is believed to be a Dallara GP2/08, built for the GP2 Series, a feeder championship for Formula One now known as Formula 2.

The driver faces a fine for operating a vehicle without headlights, indicators or number plates, and could also lose his licence.