San Marino Grand Prix 2002 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Michael Schumacher cruised to his fourth consecutive victory at Imola, now racing the F2002 on home soil for Ferrari with Rubens Barrichello completing a dominant one-two finish that delighted the passionate tifosi. The Ferraris were in a different league around the historic circuit, their superior downforce and mechanical grip allowing them to pull away effortlessly from the chasing pack. Schumacher controlled every session, setting pole position and fastest lap while managing the race with characteristic precision to extend his perfect start to the season.

Barrichello delivered his strongest performance of the year in the second F2002, finally getting to grips with the new machine after struggling in Brazil. The Brazilian pushed Schumacher early before settling into a comfortable second place, aware of his supporting role but pleased with his pace. Ralf Schumacher salvaged third for Williams after his brother's BMW engine expired, preventing what would have been a Ferrari lockout of the top three positions. Juan Pablo Montoya's challenge ended early with another mechanical retirement, frustrating Williams' championship ambitions.

The San Marino Grand Prix represented Ferrari's total domination on their Italian home turf, with both F2002s running flawlessly and demonstrating the massive performance advantage they held over every rival. The tifosi celebrated wildly as their heroes lapped the field, creating an atmosphere of invincibility at Maranello. With four wins from four races and both drivers now in the new car, Ferrari's march toward both championships appeared unstoppable, and rivals privately conceded the season was effectively over in April.