By Luke Marc Carlile-Stanton
September 24 2006

Ex-Toyota star Cristiano Da Matta has headed home after he sustained injuries whilst testing for his RU Sport Champ Car team at Road America last month.

Da Matta sustained head injuries whilst testing for his RU Sport at the Road America circuit when he made contact with a deer that ran onto the circuit. The popular Brazilian was held in intensive care at the Theda Clark Memorial Hospital as he began his long road to recovery under the observation Champ Car medical director Chris Pinderski.

But now the ex-Toyota driver has been released from hospital so he can continue his rehabilitation at his home in Miami. Pinderski said:

"We are pleased to announce that Cristiano da Matta went back to his home in Miami yesterday. His recovery so far has been nothing short of excellent and he's done so well that the remainder of his rehabilitation will take place on an outpatient basis.''

He continued: "We are fortunate to have had excellent care provided at all levels for Cristiano including the Champ Car safety team, Theda Star helicopter service, Dr. Randall Johnson and all those involved with his care at Theda Clark medical centre."

The Champ Car Wrld series is this weekend racing at Road America and since Da Matta's accident, RU Sport have only fielded one car for Da Matta's team mate and ex Jaguar and Minardi driver Justin Wilson. Many drivers have been linked with driving Da Matta's car including Indy Car race winner Dario Franchitti, but talks have appeared to break down so it looks like RU Sport will only field Wilson for the rest of the season.

From TotallyToyota F1, we wish Cristiano the best of luck with his recovery.