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The first stage of the Brazilian Formula Truck Championship, held this Sunday (April 03.04rd) at the Nelson Piquet International Autodrome in Rio de Janeiro, was a success. Competing in the competition for the first time, Flamengo had its day as host and, even though the result wasn't the best, ended up being a major attraction of the competition.

Throughout the weekend, the Flamengo team's trucks were the most sought after, even by members of other teams. The public, in turn, showed their usual affection for Flamengo's colors. On the track, Leandro Reis finished in 13th place, while José Maria Reis was 21st.

In a race full of emotions and many surprises, Felipe Giaffone (pole-position) didn't even complete the first lap due to a problem with his truck. Roberval Andrade, who was right behind him, took the lead and remained in the lead for several laps. Danilo Dirani also had an excellent start to the race, putting a lot of pressure on Roberval. On lap 20, Roberval's truck couldn't withstand the pressure from Dirani and suffered a problem with the turbine, which led the Corinthians driver to retire.

Everything seemed set for Dirani's first victory in the category, but the DF Motorsport driver suffered a differential failure and also had to retire. Unlike the Santa Cruz round, the ABF Mercedes-Benz team had much to celebrate in the end, as they inherited the first two grid positions. A one-two finish celebrated greatly by the brand's official team.

The next stage of the Formula Truck series takes place in Caruaru on May 15th.

Final result for Rio de Janeiro:

1 - Geraldo Piquet (ABF Mercedes-Benz)
2 - Wellington Cirino (ABF Mercedes-Benz)
3 - João Maistro (Clay Truck Racing)
13 - Leandro Reis (Original Reis)
21 - Zé Maria Reis (Original Reis)

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