28/11/2008
NEWS STORY
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Ferrari ace Felipe Massa has today announced a personal $25,000) donation to the victims of the flooding and earth slide caused by the heavy rains that hit the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina last weekend. Over 100 people died and more than 54,000 families were left homeless after the worst natural tragedy ever seen in the region.
Earlier today, Massa attended a press conference at Florianópolis, capital of the state, to talk about the 4th edition of his International Challenge of Go-Kart Champs and also to explain why decided to continue with the event – which is once again attracting top drivers such as Michael Schumacher, Nascar's Jeff Gordon, Rubens Barrichello, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Luca Badoer and several other local motor racing stars – despite the national and local trauma raised by the catastrophe.
"It's a sad coincidence that we are promoting the race during these days. I have heard a lot of criticism, people stating that we should cancel the race. But we think exactly the opposite. We do want to help people. This is the message we are sending: to give an example of solidarity, to make the maximum for those people in need”, said Massa, who was seated besides his fellow mates Lucas di Grassi, Thiago Camilo, Popó Bueno and Florianópolis mayor Rubens Bita.
Massa won the race in 2006, while his former Ferrari team mate Michael Schumacher stole his crown last year. "Maybe this year we make things not that easy for him," Massa joked.
Free practice, the qualifying session and top qualifying for the five fastest of each 13-driver group are scheduled for tomorrow. The promoters are expecting an attendance of 12,000 on Sunday as tickets are completely sold out.
The double-header races can be watched on Sunday on Eurosport. The first starts at 14:15 (ECT) and the second at 17:00 (ECT).
A live timing service will be also available during the weekend through the official timekeeper cronomap.com