Delving into the archives of motorsport history, we uncover fascinating tales from the past. Today, we spotlight Rubens Barrichello, a figure known for more than just being Michael Schumacher’s ‘sidekick’. He was, in fact, an eleven-time race winner, including the inaugural Grand Prix of China.
As the Chinese Grand Prix approaches, we’re reminded of the first official Formula 1 race in China back in 2004. Rubens Barrichello’s victory in that race will forever be etched in history. However, this win didn’t catapult him to global fame. Instead, he’s often reluctantly recognized as the quintessential ‘second driver’.
This perception stems from his time at Ferrari, where he was somewhat dismissively seen as Michael Schumacher’s assistant. Or, to put it more kindly, as the adjutant or even ‘wingman’ to the undisputed leader of the Italian team at the time.
This period, spanning from 2000 to 2005, is what Barrichello is most remembered for. Being a Ferrari driver inevitably puts one under the microscope, and Barrichello’s performances were no exception. However, the now 51-year-old Brazilian could never quite match his German teammate, a seven-time world champion.
Reflecting on Rubens Barrichello’s Impressive Career in Formula 1
Assessing Rubens Barrichello’s career based solely on his time at Ferrari would be unjust; it was not fair then, and it is not fair now. The man boasts an impressive record, demonstrating that there was more to his career than playing second fiddle. Consider this: he achieved eleven victories in Formula 1, a feat many would figuratively kill for. And yes, Ferrari played a significant role in this: nine of those eleven victories were in the iconic scarlet red. Thus, there is an everlasting link between the team and the driver, both in terms of success and the obstacles he faced when he had to step aside for Schumacher.
Barrichello’s Journey Beyond Ferrari
However, the Brazilian driver also raced for other teams. He was part of the Jordan stable, where he made his Formula 1 debut in 1993. Later, he drove for Stewart Racing. After his time at Ferrari, he moved to Honda, and later had to concede the title to then-teammate Jenson Button while racing for Brawn GP. However, he did win two races for the team. After a few more years with Williams, he continued his career in other branches of motorsport. Barrichello even spent some time in endurance racing, alongside the likes of Jan Lammers and Frits van Eerd.
Barrichello’s Legacy in Formula 1
While the affable Brazilian may not be counted among the greatest in the world when it comes to Formula 1, his statistics are nonetheless impressive. After Fernando Alonso, Kimi Räikkönen, and Lewis Hamilton, he still holds the fourth-highest number of F1 races under his belt, with over three hundred races. In addition to his 11 victories, there were 68 podium finishes and 14 pole positions. Not bad for a ‘sidekick’, as Barrichello might say.
