10/11/2008
NEWS STORY
Cristiano da Matta will make his début at the International Challenge of Go-Kart Champs later this month in Brazil. The 2002 CART Series champion, who suffered a major accident while testing at Elkhart Lake circuit in two years ago, will line up along with Formula 1 ace and host Felipe Massa, reigning champion Michael Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello, Tony Kanaan and many other top class driver at the Ingleses Kart Track in Florianópolis on November 29-30.
Thirty-five-year old Da Matta lives currently in the USA and this season took part in the Grand Am Series rounds in Laguna Seca and Salt Lake City. "It's going to be nice to meet some old friends again. In fact, I had a very short career in go-kart categories, but I learnt a lot from them… This year I tried go-kart in occasions in preparation for my return to motor racing. But only when I get to Florianópolis and get used to the track I will know a little more on my chances in the race," Da Matta commented.
Da Matta has been recovering quite well from the biggest drama of his life. "Physically, I never felt so good. I always liked to practice, but most all the time I was prevented from that because of the races and travels. Nowadays, without a full time job, time is no longer an issue. In fact, what I need now is a seat in any series," he joked.
Michael Schumacher is the man to be beaten as he won the 2007 edition in his first appearance. Indycar ace Tony Kanaan, FIA GT1 front-runner Xandy Negrão, Force India third driver Vitantonio Liuzzi and local series main contenders are also on the entry list.