Brazilian Grand Prix 2009 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Mark Webber claimed victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix, but the Interlagos crowd's attention focused on Rubens Barrichello's emotional home pole position and Jenson Button's championship-sealing fifth-place finish. Button's points-scoring result - already crowned champion in Japan - allowed him to savor his title triumph, while Barrichello's pole lap and podium challenge ended in heartbreak when technical issues forced his retirement, denying the Brazilian a fairy tale ending in front of his passionate home fans.

Barrichello's pole lap of 1:19.576 at his home circuit was one of the season's most emotional moments, with the 37-year-old Brazilian dreaming of victory even though his title hopes had ended in Japan. The crowd erupted as Barrichello's time topped the timesheets, but Sunday's race brought crushing disappointment when mechanical issues forced his retirement while running competitively. The sight of Barrichello's Brawn rolling to a halt denied him the chance to celebrate on the podium at Interlagos, ending his remarkable season on a bittersweet note despite finishing second in the championship.

Webber controlled the race superbly to claim his second victory of the season, heading home Robert Kubica's BMW Sauber and Lewis Hamilton's McLaren. Button drove a measured race to secure fifth place, banking points without taking unnecessary risks now that his championship was secure. His season-long consistency - six wins early on, then points-scoring defense of his lead - had proven the perfect formula for title success. The Brazilian crowd, though disappointed for Barrichello, appreciated witnessing history as Button confirmed his status as World Champion. Brawn GP's fairy tale season had delivered both championships, vindicating Ross Brawn's vision and rewriting F1 history as the ultimate underdog story. One race remained for Button and Brawn to complete their miraculous campaign.