Michael Wins Despite Worry Over Brother Ralf
By Ferrari Press Release
June 25 2004
Michael Schumacher won today's United States Grand Prix despite concern over the well-being of his brother Ralf who had a horrifying shunt early in the race.
Michael Schumacher won today's United States Grand Prix despite concern over the well-being of his brother Ralf who had a horrifying shunt early in the race. This was Michael's eight win in nine races so far this season. Ruben's second place finish also made it the sixth Ferrari 1-2 in this all-conquering season for the team.
Michael Schumacher (Driver):
"Ralf is okay and that is the most important thing today. I was very concerned when I saw him in the car for so long. Then the team told me on the radio that he was okay. The timing of the first pit-stop was crucial. I took the lead as the Safety Car went in, even though we have little time to get ready for it to pit at this track. But, I managed to slipstream Rubens and get past. We had a flexible strategy, Rubens on a longer first stint and me on a longer second one. In the final stint, Rubens was quicker than me as he had fresher tyres which is why he pushed me very hard for a couple of laps and we had a very close fight. I had to manage my tyres, which were marginal on blistering, getting better once they had worn down a bit, so allowing me to push again."
Rubens Barrichello (Driver):
"I am happy to leave North America with sixteen points, but a little bit disappointed as I felt I could have won both here and in Canada. My car was excellent today, but when the Safety Car came in, my tyre pressures were too low and I got wheelspin at the final corner, which is why Michael was able to slipstream me and get past as I could not close the door. I also lost some positions in my first pit stop, but I was pushing really hard. I also hit something on the track at one point at a blind exit to a corner and felt a big bang. The car turned left and I though the suspension was broken. Then after my final stop, I was able to attack Michael on my new tyres, but he closed the door fairly. I am now keener than ever to win a race as soon as possible."
Ross Brawn (Technical Director):
"An incredibly eventful race, during which our team and drivers reacted correctly to the changing situation. The Safety Car meant we had to react quickly to change our strategies. Rubens was very strong all weekend and Michael managed his re-start well, but I think that if Rubens had not had a problem in his first pit stop, he might have beaten Michael. Our drivers were free to race one another and we just told them to be sensible and not have an accident. After the second stop, Michael had a heavy fuel load and Rubens was on fresh tyres and for these two reasons, he was quicker than his team mate for a few laps."
Jean Todt (General Director):
"It was an incident packed race, with the early stages marked by two Safety Car periods, caused by various spectacular accidents which fortunately and most importantly did not result in any serious injuries. In the end, it all worked out in the best possible way for us. The team, the drivers and the cars were perfect. Our reliability proved to be exceptional and I wish to thank every member of the Gestione Sportiva for this. These results are down to their efforts and dedication. Michael took his eighth win of the season ahead of Rubens, who was very quick all weekend. After this race, he is now the only driver to have always finished in the points so far this season. Indianapolis brings the first half of the season to a close. It has gone fantastically well for us, thanks also to the support of our partners, first and foremost Bridgestone and Shell, but now we are looking to the future. There will be enough time to enjoy these results when we are old…"