Video: Panis and Trulli’s epic battle from 2001 German Grand Prix

22nd May 2024

Rachel Roberts

You’ll have to go back to 2020 for the last time the Formula 1 circus graced Germany with its presence, with the one-off Eifel Grand Prix held at the Nürburgring and won by Lewis Hamilton. It was there that the seven-time champion matched another one of Michael Schumacher’s records: most grand prix wins, with what was then his 91^st race victory.

Talking of Schumacher, today we’ve taken a further step back in time to the 2001 German Grand Prix and the occasion of him sealing the deal on his fourth drivers’ championship, but not without some drama. Schumacher and Prost driver Luciano Burti were involved in an airborne incident from the first corner, though were able to rejoin the race after a red flag – something the German’s title rival David Coulthard wasn’t exactly thrilled about. Schumacher went on to retire after around 20 laps, but so did Coulthard, and that was job done for the championship.

Oh, and younger brother Ralf took the chequered flag – not a bad day for the Schumachers.

Amid all this, there was action down in the midfield, too, which is what we’re highlighting today: ten laps into the grand prix, and a tasty track battle between Olivier Panis and Jarno Trulli over ninth place. The two jockey for position in a three minute clip that may contain more action than a whole grand prix these days. So, join Panis in the driver’s seat and enjoy not only the glorious sound of the V10 engines but the enthusiastic German commentary, too.

Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the last video: 20 minutes of F1 sounds at the Festival of Speed