Tales from the vault – 2005 US Grand Prix ‘Indy-Gate’
The 2005 United States Grand Prix was one of the sports strangest races only three teams started the race following problems with tyres that were unsafe to go through the final corner. This was a problem because under that season’s regulations tyre changes were only permitted if it rained.
Michelin who provided these tyres tried to install a chinae at turn to avoid the problem area. The FIA said the change would be unfair because it was dangerous for the other competitors. Later it emerged that the Michelin-shod teams could have potentially exposed themselves to criminal liability under Indiana state law had they competed.
The problems started when Ralf Schumacher crashed after a left-rear tyre failure during second practice on Friday. He was going through the banked corner which was unique because it was the only banked corner on the calendar.
Michelin was going to bring in replacements but these also had problems and were unearthed at a test a month earlier. Teams asked to set a maximum speed through turn thirteen but this was rejected as it was called “grossly unfair” to the Bridgestone teams.
The race started normally with Michael Schumacher on pole followed by Rubens Barrichello. On the formation lap the Michelin teams pulled in to the pits. They had to complete the formation lap this caused booing but gave Michael Schumacher.
Schumacher lead off from his team-mate as the Minardi’s and Jordan’s fought over third to sixth place. Schumacher remained unchallenged to win the race. With the crowed booing the winner over the finish line.
The race finished Michael Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello, Tiago Monteiro, Narain Karthikeyan, Christijan Albers, Patrick Friesacher
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