2004 Brazilian Grand Prix

Previous race

Schumacher won his thirteenth race of the season from pole at Suzuka, with Ralf Schumacher second in his first race back since the United States Grand Prix injury — the brothers finishing in tandem for the fifth time in their careers. Button was third, with Sato fourth despite returning shoulder pain and a water bottle that failed during the race. Barrichello, chasing the leading pack, touched Coulthard and both were forced to retire. BAR’s result all but secured second in the Constructors’ Championship.

Between-race developments

Ricardo Zonta replaces Olivier Panis at Toyota for the season finale; Panis retired from the sport after Japan. David Coulthard completes his final season with McLaren, the team he has been with since 1996, without a podium finish in 2004.

Entrants

This is the last race for Gianmaria Bruni and Zsolt Baumgartner with Minardi, and the final entry for the Jaguar team before it is sold to Red Bull and relaunched as Red Bull Racing in 2005. It is also the last race in which FIA medical officer Sid Watkins serves in his longstanding role.

Milestones

For the first time in the race’s history, the Brazilian Grand Prix is held at the end of the season rather than at its traditional early slot.