GREATEST RACES #4: Jacques Villeneuve claims the title after infamous collision with Michael Schumacher – 1997 European Grand Prix
Landing at #4 on our list of ‘Greatest Races’ is the 1997 European Grand Prix at Jerez, where title rivals Michael Schumacher and Jacques Villeneuve came to blows in a showdown for the ages.


To mark F1’s 75th anniversary celebrations, F1.com is counting down the sport’s 25 greatest races with a new feature every week. While you may not agree with the order, we hope you enjoy the stories of these epic races that have helped make this sport what it is today. You can read the introduction to the series and see the list of races here.
At No. 4, Jacques Villeneuve shares his memories of the 1997 European Grand Prix weekend – where the Williams driver beat Ferrari rival Michael Schumacher to the title after a bizarre Qualifying session and controversial banging of wheels on race day – with Mike Seymour...

Unlock exclusive F1 content and more with F1 Unlocked. Totally free.
Membership gets you closer with:
Curated insider content
Live like an F1 insider with exclusive access and VIP experiences
Member benefits, rewards and offers
Next Up
Related Articles
2026 regulations discussed in latest F1 commission meeting
Gasly explains why he was ‘on another level’ in Brazil
Vowles ‘proud’ of Colapinto for earning Alpine 2026 seat
Quiz10 quiz questions on the Sao Paulo GP and latest F1 news
Audi reveal livery concept ahead of 2026 F1 debut
Red Bull and Racing Bulls reveal season launch date