The Thursday morning (the 30th) was marked by a special moment of integration between motorsport and the community. On the eve of the fifth stage of the 2026 NASCAR Brasil season, which will be held at the Mato Grosso International Raceway, in Cuiabá, drivers from various categories took part in a visit to the Mato Grosso Cancer Hospital, delivering messages of support, hope, and encouragement to patients, families, and professionals at the institution.
During the action, visitors were able to get a close look at some of the NASCAR Brasil cars belonging to Mato Grosso native Jorge Martelli and the Copa Truck truck of driver Diogo Moscato, which will be in action over the weekend of competitions. Also in attendance were NASCAR Brasil drivers Dudes Castroneves and Copa Hyundai HB20 driver Márcio Lopes, also a Mato Grosso representative.
For Jorge Martelli, competing at home is already a source of pride, but starting the weekend with a solidarity action makes the stage even more special. “Whenever we have the opportunity to participate in an action like this, we realize the true reach of sport. Today we didn’t come to talk about results or about racing, but about affection, hope and encouragement. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the children, the adults and the families shows us that small gestures can make a big difference. As a Mato Grosso native, being able to live this moment in my land has an even more special meaning and motivates us to step onto the track representing each of them,” Martelli said.
The director of the Mato Grosso Cancer Hospital, Renata Oliveira, thanked the drivers for their presence and highlighted the positive impact that initiatives like this bring to patients. “It is a very great joy to welcome you all. Patients look forward to these visits with great anticipation, because they bring wonderful energy into the hospital. These moments make a huge difference in treatment, for both children and adults. For a few moments, they can forget the disease, renew their hopes, and feel the affection of people who came to share their time and attention. We are very grateful for this gesture of solidarity,” Renata stated.
Diogo Moscato, driver of the Copa Truck, also highlighted the importance of participating in initiatives that bring the sport closer to society. “We live motorsport at high speed and are always focused on results, but moments like this make us see what really matters. Entering the hospital, talking with the patients, and seeing so many examples of strength and determination is something that touches us deeply. If we manage to bring a smile or provide a few minutes of joy to someone facing such a difficult battle, we’ve already left here as winners. This energy and this learning accompany us to the track and to life,” Moscato said.
The initiative also included the participation of Turismo 1.4 Brasil drivers: JP Velarde and Kléber Ignácio, reinforcing the spirit of unity among the categories that share the Cuiabá event’s schedule.
More than just accelerating on the tracks, the drivers dedicated part of the day to speaking with patients, taking photos, signing autographs, and providing moments of joy and relaxation. The visit moved patients and families, especially the children, who were able to meet their idols and the competition cars up close. Smiles, hugs and words of encouragement transformed the morning into an unforgettable moment for everyone present, demonstrating that the power of motorsport goes far beyond the pursuit of positions on the tracks.
The fifth stage NASCAR Brasil schedule will continue over the coming days at the Mato Grosso International Raceway, with practice sessions, qualifying and races, also bringing together the Copa Truck, the Hyundai HB20 Cup and Turismo 1.4 Brasil in one of the biggest events in national motorsport.
