On Sunday, September 11, it is the 17th anniversary of Gonzalo “Gonchi” Rodríguez passing (1971 – 1999). Uruguayans still remember him as what he was: a straightforward man, full of faith and optimism; a person that took the Uruguayan national flag to the highest position in motor racing. 

As a tribute to him, the Fundación Gonzalo Rodríguez will organize an exclusive show of the film “GONCHI, la película”, at the Movie Center in Portones Shopping Mall, on September 8, at 1pm, for students and teachers of the Basic Professional Training Plan (FPB) from the Technical Schools in Malvín Norte and Flor de Maroñas.

The film will function as input to discuss Gonchi´s motivations and the achievements made in his short career in the international motor sport circuits. 

Before the film, María Fernanda “Nani” Rodríguez, President of Fundación Gonzalo Rodríguez, will make a motivational speech sharing her experience as Gonchi´s sister, the decision of perpetuating his brother through his ideals, and the importance of resilience after such a loss.

Within the context of this tribute, and aiming to promote and celebrate Gonchi´s moral values, the Uruguayan Motor Sport Federation (FUAD) and the Uruguayan Karting Federation (FUK) will organize the Gonzalo “Gonchi” Rodríguez Prix and all the races held in September will have his name. The winning driver will be chosen by the federations based on his values and attitudes inside and outside the tracks, especially focusing on his solidarity and discipline. 

The Gonzalo “Gonchi” Rodríguez Award is an art piece created by local artist Verónica Vázquez in 2009; it acknowledges the best “attitudes” by Uruguayan sports people in different disciplines. 

It is our aim that through this tribute, Gonchi´s kind and unforgettable smile remains in our hearts for ever.