Italian Grand Prix 2009 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Rubens Barrichello delivered a commanding victory at the Italian Grand Prix, leading home Jenson Button for Brawn GP's first one-two finish since Monaco and keeping his championship hopes alive heading into the crucial final races. The Brazilian's second consecutive victory at Monza demonstrated that he remained a genuine title contender, though Button's second-place finish meant the British driver maintained a narrow points advantage with four races remaining in one of the closest championship battles in recent years.

Starting from second on the grid behind Lewis Hamilton's pole position for McLaren, Barrichello executed a perfect race strategy and superior pace to seize the lead and control proceedings at the Temple of Speed. The 37-year-old's victory was a statement of intent - despite Button's early-season dominance, Barrichello believed he could still win the championship and was driving with the confidence and aggression of a man refusing to accept defeat. His back-to-back victories at Valencia and Monza had transformed the title fight, reducing Button's once-commanding lead to just 14 points.

Button drove a mature race to secure second place, recognizing that consistent points-scoring was more important than risky overtaking attempts on his teammate. The British driver's approach showcased championship-winning mentality - banking points and maintaining his lead rather than gambling everything for victory. Räikkönen completed the podium for Ferrari, delighting the Tifosi with consecutive strong results after their miserable season. Hamilton retired from pole position with mechanical issues, continuing McLaren's frustrating campaign. The Italian GP set up a tense finale - Button led by 14 points over Barrichello with Vettel still mathematically in contention 15 points back. Brawn's fairy tale season would have a dramatic conclusion, with the question now whether Button or Barrichello would claim the ultimate prize.