Canadian Grand Prix 2011 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Canadian Grand Prix

Montreal • Canada

Complete

Jun 12, 2011 5:00 PM

Race Results

🥇Winner
🥈2nd Place
🥉3rd Place
Red Bull
Pole Position
Fastest Lap

Race Summary

Jenson Button produced one of the greatest drives in Formula 1 history to win the Canadian Grand Prix, coming from last place to victory in a chaotic, rain-soaked race that lasted over four hours and finally ended Sebastian Vettel's winning streak. The 2009 World Champion's masterclass in wet-weather driving, combined with brilliant strategy and relentless determination, resulted in a legendary performance that ranks among the sport's most memorable races and proved that Vettel was not invincible.

Starting from pole position with a lap of 1:13.014, Vettel appeared set for his seventh consecutive victory as he controlled the early stages of the race. However, the Canadian weather had other plans. Heavy rain began falling, causing chaos throughout the field and triggering multiple safety car periods. Button, who had been running well, dropped to last place after making contact with teammate Lewis Hamilton and then receiving a drive-through penalty for speeding behind the safety car. What followed was an epic comeback drive for the ages. Button carved through the field with stunning pace and racecraft, demonstrating supreme car control in the treacherous conditions while others crashed or made errors. The race was red-flagged for over two hours due to torrential rain, adding to the drama.

When racing resumed, Button continued his charge and closed on Vettel, who was struggling with his tires in the drying conditions. In a dramatic final-lap showdown, Vettel made a crucial error and crashed attempting to defend from Button, handing the lead to the British driver who crossed the line to claim one of the most remarkable victories ever witnessed. Vettel recovered to finish second after serving a penalty, with teammate Mark Webber third. The race set records for longest F1 race in history (four hours, four minutes) and featured six safety car periods and countless incidents. Michael Schumacher ran as high as second before crashing late on, while Hamilton retired after early contact. Button's victory - featuring the most positions gained in a single race - ended Vettel's perfect start and provided one of 2011's few moments of unpredictability, reminding everyone why Formula 1 remains the greatest show on earth.