On 15th August 2004, Michael Schumacher won the Hungarian Grand Prix. Thanks to this victory and a second place for team-mate Rubens Barrichello, the Scuderia took the Constructors’ title, its sixth in a row. The result also ensured that, for a fifth consecutive time, one of its drivers would win the Drivers’ championship. The entire weekend was dominated by the Scuderia, as indeed had already happened several times in this amazing season. The combination of the F2004 and the Bridgestone tyres worked amazingly well in every climatic condition and on every type of track. Preparation for the Hungarian race had been meticulous, partly because of the wish to wipe out the shame of Schumacher being lapped the previous year.
After Saturday delivered an all-red front row, the race was all about Michael and Rubens, with the German never letting up on his way to the Grand Slam, also taking the race fastest lap. The extent of Ferrari’s dominance could be seen from the gaps: its closest rival, Alonso in the Renault, crossed the line 44 seconds down on the winner and 40 behind the second placed man
“I am proud of a team that is capable of winning its sixth Constructors’ title in a row, with six races still remaining,” said Montezemolo, speaking from Italy after the race. “I want to thank the extraordinary Ferrari people and our drivers and I can’t wait to celebrate with them tomorrow evening in Maranello. This success is a tribute to Italian work and technology: we wish to dedicate it to Italy, which has the manpower, the resources and an amazing ability to stand out in the world.”
Leave a Reply