Further changes came in 2002 when the first turn was reprofiled to cut into the infield and around a new stadium section, slowing the track even more, but yielding another overtaking spot. Some superficial modifications also occurred for last year's race.
The current circuit remains a fairly high downforce track that is light on tyres. To achieve a competitive lap time here requires all the normal chassis attributes: good traction (particularly out of the hairpins), good chassis balance and stability under braking. As the circuit is situated close to the Eifel Mountains, weather can often play a major role in the outcome of races at the Nurburgring.
The 2004 European Grand Prix also marks the 40th anniversary of Honda's first Formula One race; Ronnie Bucknum started Honda's first ever F1 Grand Prix at the Nurburgring on 2 August 1964.
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