So Michael Schumacher didn't win his 8th world championship. Well, it was a long shot anyway. Up to the start of the third qualifying stage things were looking good that he would do his part, though. After qualifying and Schumi's 10th spot on the grid due to not setting a time, even I had to admit that things were looking very difficult indeed. Schumi's start was brilliant, however: from 10th to 7th place after the first lap. When Schumi streamed past Fisichella I though the old fox would really pull it of and go on to win the race - if nothing else. Then, however, there was a slight contact between Fisico's front wing and Schumi's left rear tire, and that was it. I don't think anybody will blame Fisicella for not giving Schumi all the room in the world - though a suspicious part of me can't help wondering if maybe Briatore had ordered "a young mechanic" to sharpen the edges of the front wings for just such a situation.
Schumi made it to the pits for a new tire and a full fuel tank, and started one of his great catch-up games. Why didn't we let Schumi start all his 250 races from the back? F1 would have been so much more exciting. Schumi's last race was a brilliant show, and his pass on Räikkönnen had me cheering aloud. I had hoped that Schumi would at least make it on the podium, but that was not to be.
Massa, having scored his second pole position, was never in any danger. He could afford to drive relaxedly - did anyone else notice that he drove slower than Schumacher while the latter was doing his chase? Sensible strategy in case Alonso would suffer a defect, of course. Massa won - a brasilian in brasil. We were treated to some very emotional festivities, with lots of happy faces. It's been a long time since we've seen a F1 driver crowd surfing.
Alonso had a comfortable day, and secured his second world title. He also helped Renault to their second constructor's title. Lots of happy faces here as well.
Winner of the Day: F1 in general. A thrilling race thanks to Schumi's chase with some overtaking manouvers bordering on genius. Lots of emotions and celebrations. I wish all races were like this.
Loser of the Day: Williams. Both drivers retired in the first lap after colliding with each other. This is what team bosses do not want to see.