French GP Bridgestone race notes

Michael Schumacher took the 50th win of his Formula 1 career, leaving himself just two more victories to beat Alain Prost’s all-time record. The Ferrari driver’s win in the French Grand Prix is also the 50th time that a world championship race has been won on Bridgestone tyres. Schumacher was joined on the podium by his brother Ralf and his teammate Rubens Barrichello, who was third. David Coulthard was fourth for West McLaren Mercedes, followed by the B&H Jordan Honda of Jarno Trulli. Nick Heidfeld in the Red Bull Sauber Petronas was the fifth Bridgestone runner in the top six.

Ross Brawn - Technical Director - Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro

"Michael drove a perfect race, another classic. He kept in touch with Ralf at the front when it mattered. We went for a shorter middle stint in the hope that he could get ahead. If he had not been able to jump a place we would have been in trouble. Generally the tyres were good. This is another step closer towards the championship but there are seven races to go and we will not forget that."

Hisao Suganuma - Technical Manager - Bridgestone Motorsport

"In the past this track has been tough for us so it is extra pleasing to see two Bridgestone drivers on the podium. After the last test here, our tyre did not perform as well as we expected so we developed a new specification to bring here. That hard work obviously paid off because the new compound was very good all weekend, especially in the difficult, hot conditions we have had each day."

Shigeo Watanabe - President, CEO & Chairman of the Board - Bridgestone Corporation

"This is my first race of the season and it has been thrilling to watch such an exciting battle on the track, and especially as this marks the 50th grand prix victory on Bridgestone tyres. I felt very sorry for Mika at the start, but I am delighted to see Michael and Rubens on the podium. A victory like this motivates all our staff worldwide. Everyone at Bridgestone is working extremely hard to make every race a successful one for all our teams."

Temperatures Air Track Weather

Morning 20-25C 25-42C Dry and sunny

Afternoon 25-29C 48-51C Dry and sunny

-Bridgestone