2004 Chinese Grand Prix

Lore & Background

The 56-lap race was won by Rubens Barrichello for the Ferrari team, from a pole position start. Jenson Button finished second for the BAR team, with Kimi Räikkönen third in a McLaren. It was Barrichello's last win for Ferrari and his last until the 2009 European Grand Prix for Brawn GP.

In Their Own Story

The air in Shanghai hung heavy with humidity as the F2004s roared to life on grid. Michael Schumacher, eyes fixed ahead, felt the familiar hum of the V10 engine—a beast that had already conquered the world. As the lights went out, he surged forward, the red blur instantly separating from the pack. The race unfolded not as a battle, but as a procession, with Schumacher dictating the pace and Barrichello shadowing perfectly behind.

Reader's Guide

Michael Schumacher and Ferrari were already the drivers' and constructors' world champions. Barrichello set the fastest lap and took pole position ahead of Räikkönen and Button. After changing the engine during the night, Michael Schumacher started from the pit lane. Barrichello maintained his lead at the start and won the race. Michael Schumacher spun and finished behind Jacques Villeneuve, who took eleventh place.

Did You Know?

• The race was the first where radio conversations between teams and drivers were broadcast to television viewers.
• Renault fired Jarno Trulli after the Italian Grand Prix and was replaced by Jacques Villeneuve.
• This was the first race back for Ralf Schumacher after injuries in the 2004 United States Grand Prix three months prior.
• At Jordan, Timo Glock replaced Giorgio Pantano for the last three Grand Prix races of the season.