2003 French Grand Prix

Championship standings

Michael Schumacher leads with 58 points, seven ahead of Räikkönen in second. Ralf Schumacher is third on 43 points. Ferrari lead the Constructors’ on 95 points, Williams second on 82, McLaren third on 76.

Previous race

At the Nürburgring, Räikkönen led from pole and appeared set to win until his McLaren’s Mercedes engine broke down on lap 25. Ralf Schumacher inherited the lead and held on for his first victory of the season. Montoya and Michael Schumacher collided on lap 43 while fighting for second — Schumacher spinning into the gravel — with Montoya taking second and Barrichello third. The result was the first time this season that the top two in the championship both failed to score a podium in the same race.

Track changes

Earlier in 2003, the Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours was upgraded. The Château d’Eau corner and the Lycée section were completely redesigned, now featuring a sharp right-hand turn after the back straight leading to a difficult final chicane adjacent to the pit entrance. The pit lane was significantly shortened as a result.

Practice

Mark Webber sets the fastest time in the first session, more than a second ahead of Ralf Schumacher and Alonso. Alonso leads the second session ahead of Barrichello and Ralf Schumacher. The Williamses of Ralf Schumacher and Montoya lead the final session, ahead of Coulthard.

In the first qualifying session, Jos Verstappen goes fastest in the wet — the only time a Minardi has topped the timesheets at a race weekend. Justin Wilson set the second-fastest time but it is deleted after scrutineering finds his car 2.5 kg underweight.