Hungarian Grand Prix 2002 - Race Schedule and Countdown
Hungarian Grand Prix
Budapest • Hungary
Aug 18, 2002 2:00 PM
Race Results
Race Summary
Rubens Barrichello claimed his second victory of the season at the Hungaroring, leading Michael Schumacher across the line for Ferrari's ninth one-two finish in a season of total domination. The Brazilian controlled the Hungarian Grand Prix from pole position, managing the race perfectly on the tight and twisty Budapest circuit where overtaking proved nearly impossible. Ferrari wisely allowed Barrichello to race without interference, continuing their policy of letting him win when running ahead as atonement for the Austria controversy.
Schumacher ran contentedly in second place throughout, never attempting to challenge his teammate and instead focusing on securing maximum constructor points. The world champion's relaxed approach demonstrated Ferrari's comfortable position in both championships, with neither title under any threat. Ralf Schumacher completed the podium for Williams-BMW, the German driving a lonely race in third after being unable to match the Ferraris' pace on a circuit that typically favored mechanical grip over raw power.
Barrichello's victory represented his third win of 2002 and confirmed his status as a top-tier driver when given competitive equipment and team support. The Hungarian result extended Ferrari's constructor championship lead to an insurmountable margin while Schumacher's runner-up finish kept him on track to potentially win fifteen races by season's end. The processional nature of the race highlighted the Hungaroring's limitations as an overtaking venue, though Ferrari's dominance meant the result was never in doubt regardless of circuit characteristics.