INDIANAPOLIS -- Takuma Sato became the first Japanese driver in 14 years to make a podium finish at an overseas grand prix when he placed third in the final of the U.S. Grand Prix on Sunday.
Sato, who started the race for BAR Honda in third position, slipped into 10th at one point before battling back to outpace Italy's Jarno Trulli, who finished in fourth.
Michael Schumacher cruised to a 2.9-second victory over Ferrari teammate Rubens Barrichello in a U.S. Grand Prix marred by several crashes, including one that left his brother in an Indianapolis hospital.
Afterward, the six-time world champion was subdued despite his eighth win in nine races this season.
"Obviously, that was the biggest concern I had, seeing Ralf sitting so long in the car," Schumacher said.
It took track workers several minutes to get Ralf Schumacher out of the car after he lost control, spun twice coming out of turn 13 and slammed hard into the outside wall. Team owner Frank Williams said the younger Schumacher was conscious, and able to move his arms and legs. The team issued a statement saying he would be kept overnight for observation.
Michael Schumacher made his winning move on the fifth lap with a running start behind the safety car, pulling next to Barrichello on a restart and accelerated past him to take the lead. It was typical Schumacher -- gutsy, skillful and, of course, perfectly timed.