The Brazilian took just 19 laps to go from the back to second place and he had no cause for complaint about any of the drivers he overtook on the way. “Everyone I came to pass gave me a good battle, but in a very fair way, though of course some cars were easier to pass than others,” he said. “My chances of overtaking were increased with the rain coming, as I had a tyre that really suited the situation.”

Rubens’ skill at the wheel was complemented by good support from the Ferrari pit-crew. “The team also did a great job with the pit stops, especially as a couple of times I pitted right behind Michael on the same lap,” explained the Brazilian. “Initially, I thought I could not come in because he was there, but then I was called in on the radio. I was on the edge of missing the entrance to the pit lane, but it worked well. The team has practiced bringing both cars in together and it is a good strategy.”