The race started before 85,112 spectators at 14:00 local time. The conditions on the grid were dry and cloudy before the race. The air temperature ranged from and the track temperature was between ; weather forecasts indicated a 30% chance of rain. While on an reconnaissance lap, Burti's car developed a water leak and was forced to start with his team's spare car from the pit lane. Michael Schumacher also opted to use his team's spare car. Häkkinen, from pole position on the grid, held onto the lead going into the first corner. Coulthard, who started alongside Häkkinen, maintained second position. Further down the order, Diniz swerved to avoid contact with Verstappen. The resulting manoeuvre resulted in Diniz colliding with Fisichella. Ahead of them, Trulli drove into the back of Barrichello, while Zonta made contact with Michael Schumacher. Diniz made further minor contact with teammate Salo. Both BAR and Prost drivers were forced wide in avoidance. These incidents resulted in the safety car being deployed. During the safety car period, Verstappen drove to his garage because of a gearbox problem.