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Thousands of fans pack themselves into the circuit for the only South American Formula One race of the year. Although resurfaced in 2000, the track remains bumpy. This, coupled with the fact that Interlagos is one of just two circuits that runs in an anti-clockwise direction makes this race one of the toughest and physically demanding for the drivers, putting extra strain on the drivers' muscles. The circuit is built in a very hilly area so there are some steep gradients to the track. The combination of two straights and a section of slow, technical corners in the infield, means there has to be a compromise with car set-up and downforce, which can be further affected by the very changeable tropical weather conditions. Timo Glock finished the last race of 2004 in 15th position while Nick Heidfeld was forced to retire on lap 17 with a transmission problem. Montoya gave Williams their only victory of the year as his parting shot, with his 2005 team mate Kimi Raikkonen following him across the line and local hero Rubens Barrichello joining them on the podium in 3rd place. Eddie Jordan said, “It’s been a very difficult season but I am hugely heartened nevertheless by progress with several issues this weekend that hopefully will show Formula One and Jordan can be great again. There have been rumours about the team all season and I want to thank my staff in particular, as well as the guys at Pi, Cosworth and Bridgestone, our suppliers and every person who is closely involved with us. They have all shown commitment and fighting spirit throughout, never giving up in spite of very tough times. The experience has strengthened us all and I believe that fortune favours the brave. Brazil 2004 may be remembered for more than the racing - for Jordan and for Formula One.”
Jordan may be known as F1’s underdog and is certainly dogged by rumour and speculation at the moment, but it was real dogs interrupting proceedings today in Interlagos as 30 minutes of morning free practice was called off while circuit officials tried to remove two strays from the track. Subsequent practice and qualifying sessions ran smoothly apart from a heavy accident for Michael Schumacher, his resulting engine change penalty moving Nick Heidfeld and Timo Glock up a place each to start the Brazilian Grand Prix ahead of the World Champion, in 16th and 17th on the grid.
Rubens Barichello was quickest in free practice at his home Grand Prix today in Interlagos, while the Jordan drivers stayed relatively competitive, Robert Doornbos setting the 13th fastest time of 25 drivers on his first day of driving at the Brazilian circuit. He commented, “It was a good day for me and I had fun. I was really hoping for dry weather because the last two times I drove the car, in Suzuka and the test in England, it was in wet conditions. It was dry as I hoped and both sessions went well. I helped the team with tyre choice data and at the end they got me on a qualifying set-up which was another first for me. I put in a good time and I am happy, also because my sponsor Muermans is here this weekend so it’s been a really good day.”
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