European Grand Prix 2002 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Rubens Barrichello finally claimed a deserved victory at the European Grand Prix, leading home teammate Michael Schumacher for Ferrari's eighth one-two finish of the season. The Brazilian dominated from pole position at the Nürburgring, demonstrating the pace and precision that made him one of F1's finest drivers despite playing second fiddle to Schumacher. Ferrari wisely allowed Barrichello to race without interference, learning from the Austria controversy and rewarding his consistent support throughout the season.

Schumacher ran comfortably in second place throughout, never seriously challenging his teammate and seemingly content to bring home strong points. The German's measured approach suggested Ferrari had agreed to let Barrichello take the victory as compensation for Austria, restoring some team harmony after the controversial season orders. Kimi Räikkönen claimed an excellent third place for McLaren, the young Finn continuing to impress in his second season and establishing himself as a future championship contender with another mature performance.

The Ferrari one-two extended their constructor's championship lead to an insurmountable margin, effectively wrapping up both titles before the summer break. Barrichello's victory - his first of the season in the race trim - demonstrated his capability when given equal equipment and freedom to race. The result restored some dignity to the Brazilian driver and partially repaired Ferrari's tarnished image following Austria, though the season's competitive imbalance remained F1's primary talking point as the European phase of the championship reached its midpoint.