Only 6 of 20 entered cars started the 2005 US Grand Prix due to a Michelin tyre safety crisis, producing the lowest finishing count in Indianapolis open-wheel history.
Key Facts
- Cars that competed
- 6 out of 20 entered
- Race date
- June 19, 2005
- Winner
- Michael Schumacher (Ferrari)
- Second place
- Rubens Barrichello (Ferrari)
- Third place
- Tiago Monteiro (Jordan) — only F1 podium
- Championship round
- 9th race of 2005 F1 World Championship
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Two tyre failures during Friday practice at Indianapolis, involving Ralf Schumacher and Ricardo Zonta, prompted Michelin to warn its seven customer teams that the tyres could only safely last 10 laps without a speed reduction in Turn 13. A 2005 rule banning mid-race tyre changes and a repaved oval section compounded the danger. The FIA refused Michelin's proposed chicane compromise, citing fairness to Bridgestone-equipped teams.
On June 19, 2005, all fourteen Michelin-shod cars completed the formation lap but withdrew to the pit lane before the race began, leaving only six cars from Ferrari, Jordan, and Minardi to compete. Michael Schumacher won ahead of teammate Rubens Barrichello, with Tiago Monteiro of Jordan taking third place in a race that was officially valid but widely condemned.
The race generated severe negative publicity for Formula One globally, especially in the United States, where the sport had long struggled to build an audience. It marked the last podium finish for the Jordan team and moved Michael Schumacher to third in the Drivers' Championship. The scandal prompted lasting debate about tyre regulations, FIA governance, and Formula One's viability as a mainstream American sport.