Renault's qualifying performance as evidence that their "conservative phase" was over. Renault's Pat Symonds had said that the team was not aiming to settle for a simple podium finish, rather they were aiming to win. BBC's Maurice Hamilton said that "the thought that Fernando Alonso might cruise to the Championship.....was dispelled in the most convincing fashion". McLaren CEO Ron Dennis remained confident of his team's race strategy given Juan Pablo Montoya's strong second position, despite a major error in the qualifying lap of Kimi Räikkönen. Qualifying Race Monteiro and Villeneuve would start the race from the pitlane. Championship standings after the race Bold text indicates who still has a theoretical chance of becoming World Champion. Drivers' Championship standings Constructors' Championship standings Note: Only the top five positions are included for both sets of standings. References Brazilian Grand Prix Brazilian Grand Prix Grand Prix Brazilian Grand Prix