US GP 2005: A Race of Six Cars

The 2005 United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis stands as one of Formula 1's most controversial and embarrassing events, with only six cars taking the start due to a dramatic tire safety crisis. The incident stemmed from a severe tire failure during practice for Ralf Schumacher, leading Michelin to declare its inability to guarantee the safety of its tires for a full race distance on the high-speed oval section of the track.

Why it matters:

The 2005 US Grand Prix created a lasting stain on Formula 1's reputation, highlighting critical safety regulations and the power dynamics between tire manufacturers, teams, and the FIA. It remains a stark reminder of the complexities and potential pitfalls when technical regulations clash with safety concerns, dramatically impacting the competitive integrity of the sport.

The details:

• The Incident: Ralf Schumacher's crash during practice, caused by a tire failure at the banked oval corner, exposed the vulnerability of Michelin tires to the unique stresses of the Indianapolis circuit.
• Michelin's Warning: Following the crash, Michelin informed the FIA that it could not guarantee the safety of its tires for the 14 cars it supplied—nearly 70% of the grid—over the race distance.
• Proposed Solutions: Teams proposed two main solutions: introducing a temporary chicane before the final corner to reduce speeds and tire stress, or allowing in-race tire changes, which were forbidden under the rules at the time.
• FIA's Rejection: Both proposals were rejected by the FIA on the grounds that circuit modifications and rule exceptions were not permitted by the regulations.
• The Walkout: As a direct consequence, all Michelin-equipped teams (Renault, McLaren, Williams, Toyota, BAR, and Red Bull) pulled into the pits during the formation lap, refusing to start the race due to safety concerns.
• The Race of Six: Only six cars, all running on Bridgestone tires (two Ferraris, two Jordans, and two Minardis), proceeded to the grid and completed the race. This included Michael Schumacher winning for Ferrari, followed by teammate Rubens Barrichello, and Tiago Monteiro securing Jordan's only podium.

Between the lines:

The incident underscored the rigidity of FIA regulations at the time and the unwillingness to bend rules even in extreme safety circumstances. It also exposed the commercial pressures on tire manufacturers and the potential for a single technical issue to derail an entire Grand Prix, leading to significant fan backlash and a lasting negative impression of the sport in the crucial American market.

What's next:

The 2005 US GP ultimately led to a re-evaluation of safety protocols and a greater emphasis on collaboration between the FIA, tire suppliers, and teams. While similar large-scale walkouts have not recurred, the event serves as a historical precedent for how the sport must balance competitive integrity with the paramount importance of driver safety and fan experience.