At the heart of Vienna, under the shadow of the city hall, an unusual world championship took place in September. Instead of sprinters or footballers, it was tram drivers competing for international glory. Among the 25 teams from around the globe, Poznań tram drivers – Monika Bocian and Dariusz Graj – claimed second place, just behind the hosts. Their achievement not only placed them among the world’s best but also brought immense pride to Poznań and Poland.
From National Triumph to the Global Stage
The road to Vienna was paved in Warsaw. On June 28–29, tram drivers from twelve Polish cities, including Warsaw, Gdańsk, Kraków, and Wrocław, gathered for the national championships organized by Tramwaje Warszawskie. Teams faced ten technical and precision-based challenges, from emergency braking to tram “bowling” and billiards. Poznań tram drivers, representing MPK Poznań, stood out in both skill and teamwork, ultimately winning the tournament and earning the right to represent Poland at the world stage – the Tram-WM 2025.
Eight Demanding Challenges in Vienna
The international championship in Vienna featured eight disciplines designed to test not only driving ability but also reflexes, teamwork, and precision. Among the highlights were:
- Reverse driving from the rear cab – with added difficulty of balancing a bowl of water.
- Maintaining 25 km/h without a speedometer – requiring instinctive control of the vehicle.
- Electrodynamic braking – stopping the tram with pinpoint accuracy.
- Tram bowling and curling – using the tram to knock down pins or push a trolley into a scoring zone.
- Boarding platform precision – aligning doors perfectly with a marked platform.
- The “dancing couple” challenge – maneuvering dangerously close to props without touching them.
For Poznań tram drivers Bocian and Graj, the final curling challenge proved the toughest. Not only were they unfamiliar with the equipment, but the trams themselves were different from those used in Poznań – and their control panels were labeled only in German. Despite these hurdles, they excelled in most tasks, racking up points and holding a strong lead until the very end.
A Narrow Defeat, a Historic Achievement
Ultimately, the Poznań tram drivers finished just behind the Austrians. The difference in scores was slim – a matter of fine margins in a competition where every centimeter and second counted.
They are champions. To be second out of 25 teams from around the world, behind only the hosts, is extraordinary. For us, it feels like victory.
pointed out Krzysztof Dostatni, President of MPK Poznań.
The event itself attracted huge public attention. Crowds filled Vienna’s central square, and even the local metro stations broadcasted announcements discouraging further attendance due to overcrowding. For Poznań’s representatives, the atmosphere was electrifying, with Polish supporters waving flags and cheering them on.
Back to the Daily Tracks
Despite their newfound fame, Bocian and Graj quickly returned to everyday life in Poznań. “We don’t feel like celebrities,” they said, emphasizing that the very next morning they were back behind the controls of their trams, transporting Poznań residents to work and school. Fans may ask for autographs, but for them, their greatest pride is serving the city every day.
Their success, however, is far from a fleeting headline. It has already secured Poznań the right to host the next Polish tram driver championships in 2026. The city will welcome teams from across the country, with the winners earning the chance to represent Poland at future European competitions.
Training, Dedication, and Team Spirit
The story of Poznań tram drivers Bocian and Graj is one of discipline and teamwork. Preparing for both the national and international competitions required long hours of training under the supervision of Robert Zieliński, MPK Poznań’s tram driving instructor. They practiced precision braking, maneuvering, and situational drills several times a week, often after their regular shifts. According to Zieliński, such exercises are not just for competitions.
These challenges are practical. Smooth braking, steady acceleration, and precise maneuvers are what make tram travel comfortable and safe for passengers. Every driver in Poznań benefits from this kind of training.
explains Zieliński.
From Vienna Back to Poznań’s Tracks
Finishing second in the world may technically mean “vice-champions,” but for Poznań tram drivers, it feels like a gold medal. Their achievement resonates far beyond Vienna’s city square – it strengthens civic pride, promotes Poznań internationally, and highlights the everyday heroes who keep the city moving.
As Krzysztof Dostatni put it best:
This is promotion not just for MPK Poznań, but for the entire city. These are our champions.
