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Fate deprived us of a sensational duel between Michael Schumacher and Ayrton Senna. But instead of an easy path to his first title, the German will suffer the assaults of a sporting power ulcerated by the provocations of Flavio Briatore and his technicians. And will have to fend off, until the last Grand Prix, those of a Damon Hill transcended by the challenge. This 1994 season of grim memory, however, looked good, with the sign of a return to refueling and real driving. No more technical assistance which had distorted F1 too much. Williams, who benefited the most from it, will be the main victim of this rule change.
Now linked to Peugeot, McLaren must also survive after Senna, who joined Sir Frank's team (Williams). As for Ferrari, it hasn't won for three years. This redistribution of cards plays into the hands of Benetton, which will reach maturity in 1994. Technically, its B194 is a descendant of John Barnard's B191. Although the latter left Enstone a long time ago, the Italian-English team has no shortage of talent. Under the general direction of Flavio Briatore and Tom Walkinshaw, Ross Brawn retains the position of Technical Director. He has under his command Rory Byrne, Pat Symonds and Frank Dernie (who will move to Ligier during the season) without forgetting the team manager Joan Villadelprat. It is within this dream team that Schumacher flourishes, without leaving the slightest space to his teammates. During this 1994 season, JJ Lehto, Jos Verstappen and Johnny Herbert ran out of steam in his wake.
A fanfare start
The only world champion remaining in the running, Senna appears to be the big favorite, so much so that the declared objective of Schumacher and Benetton is only aimed at 2nd
