Brazilian Grand Prix 1991 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Ayrton Senna claimed one of the most emotional and physically demanding victories of his career at Interlagos, finally winning his home Grand Prix after six years of heartbreak and disappointment. The Brazilian dominated the race from pole position, but with just a few laps remaining, his McLaren's gearbox stuck in sixth gear, forcing him to nurse the car home while suffering excruciating muscle cramps in his arms and shoulders. Senna's determination to win in front of his home crowd kept him pushing despite the physical agony, and he crossed the line in tears, barely able to hold the steering wheel.

Riccardo Patrese finished second for Williams after a strong drive that showcased the FW14's improving competitiveness. The Italian veteran closed rapidly on Senna in the closing laps as the Brazilian struggled with his gearbox issues, but couldn't quite close the gap in time. Gerhard Berger completed a McLaren one-three in third place, with the team's dominance evident despite Senna's mechanical problems.

The victory was profoundly meaningful for Senna, who broke down in tears on the podium while the Brazilian national anthem played. After years of near-misses and heartbreak at Interlagos, the triumph released years of pent-up emotion and frustration. The sight of Senna being helped from his car, physically exhausted but emotionally euphoric, remains one of Formula 1's most iconic moments. The win moved Senna to the top of the championship standings and confirmed McLaren's dominance of the 1991 season.