Pro Brazilian Racing Driver
Celso Neto, 21, is a Brazilian race car driver rising in motorsports. He started karting in the U.S., set records in Brazil as youngest ever podium finisher in Brazilian Touring Car (Turismo Nacional), was champion of the 2021 Mid West Touring Car Cup.
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After strong results in TC America with Skip Barber Racing, he was Vice-Champion in TCX in 2024. Now racing in IMSA, he earned the 2025–26 IMSA 3D Scholarship and 3 podiums in his rookie 2025 IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Season, en route to a 4th place finish in the drivers championship.
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As well as competing in racing, Celso has more than 3 years of coaching experience in karting with teams like URACE, Praga USA, as well as for drivers in USF2000, USFJuniors, GT4 America, TC America and is currently a head coach at Velocity Racing / SODI Kart.​
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Other Skills
As the full-time Coach and Driver Development Program Manager at Velocity Racing & Praga USA, Celso plays a pivotal role in enhancing both kart performance and driver skills. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks aimed at optimizing racing outcomes and fostering driver development.
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Celso is deeply involved in chassis testing and development, focusing on refining chassis setups to maximize track performance. This entails meticulous analysis and adjustments to improve handling, balance, and overall efficiency, tailored to the specific needs of each race and driver.
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In addition to their technical expertise, Celso provides comprehensive driver coaching, including one-on-one training sessions designed to enhance driving techniques, race craft, and strategic thinking. During race weekends, Celso Neto takes on the crucial role of strategist, data engineer, and coach. They develop and implement race strategies and positioning decisions that significantly influence race outcomes.
This involves analyzing competitors, adapting to track conditions, and ensuring drivers are well-prepared to execute their best performance.
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Overall, Celso Neto’s role at Velocity Racing & Praga USA is essential to both the technical and strategic facets of racing, ensuring that drivers are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed while advancing the capabilities of their chassis development.
