12 July in Ferrari history: Michael Schumacher’s unusual Silverstone victory

On 12 July 1998, Michael Schumacher won the British Grand Prix for Ferrari in extraordinary circumstances. Rather than completing the race on Silverstone’s main straight, he crossed the finishing line in the pit lane.

Rain and a late penalty shape the finish

A wet race brought a safety-car intervention and a change in the battle at the front. Schumacher took the lead after Mika Häkkinen ran wide following the restart.

Late in the race, the Ferrari driver received a penalty relating to an overtake under the safety car. Ferrari called him into the pits on the final lap, but the position of the finishing line meant he completed the race before reaching his pit box.

The circumstances prompted a protest and considerable debate. Schumacher nevertheless remained the official winner.

Irvine gives Ferrari a second podium finish

The final classification placed Häkkinen second and Eddie Irvine third. Ferrari therefore took two podium positions from an afternoon remembered primarily for its unusual ending.

This anniversary is best understood through both the racing and the penalty controversy: the finishing order alone does not explain what happened.

Explore Michael Schumacher’s career records and discover more distinctive races in the Ferrari On This Day calendar.