The condition of Cristiano da Matta continues to significantly improve.

The Brazilian was injured after colliding with a deer that ran onto the track near Turn Six at Road America in Elkhart Lake. during a Champ Car Open Test on August 3, and has been recovering at Theda Clark Medical Center in Neenah, Wisconsin, since then.

Champ Car Medical Director Dr. Chris Pinderski flew back to Theda Clark today, for an update on the condition of da Matta and to visit with the da Matta family.

"Cristiano has made excellent progress in the past several days," said Pinderski. "Although he is still somewhat confused, he is now conversational in both English and Portuguese. Additionally, he has started to walk on his own for short periods of time with minimal assistance. We anticipate that Cristiano will be ready to make the transition to a rehabilitation setting next week."

Since his accident, RuSPORT and Champ Car have received many messages of support for da Matta. In response, RuSPORT also announced that, in lieu of sending flowers and gifts, anyone wishing to express their support for da Matta during his recovery is asked to please make a donation in his name to Hole in the Wall Camps, an official charity of the Champ Car World Series.

Get well cards for Cristiano can be sent to:

Cristiano da Matta, patient
Theda Clark Medical Center
130 2nd St.
Neenah, WI 54956
USA