Portuguese Grand Prix 1991 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Riccardo Patrese claimed victory at the Portuguese Grand Prix to delay Ayrton Senna's championship celebration once more, though the Brazilian's second-place finish meant the title would be decided at the next race in Spain. The Italian veteran drove a masterful race from pole position, controlling proceedings with smooth precision to secure his third win of the season. Patrese's victory demonstrated his continued competitiveness and proved he was more than just Nigel Mansell's supporting driver at Williams.

Ayrton Senna finished second for McLaren, collecting crucial points that put him on the verge of securing the championship with three races remaining. The Brazilian drove a calculated race, knowing that consistency rather than heroics would deliver the title. Jean Alesi completed the podium for Ferrari in third place, continuing his impressive season with another strong performance that highlighted his raw talent despite Ferrari's struggles.

The race was notable for Nigel Mansell's retirement while running strongly, marking another frustrating mechanical failure that cost Williams valuable points in the Constructors' Championship battle with McLaren. The result meant Senna could clinch his third World Championship at the next round in Spain if he outscored Mansell by two points. With McLaren's reliability advantage and Senna's consistency, the title appeared to be a formality waiting to be confirmed.