In recent years, it has been common for rounds of the championship to be canceled due to problems with the organizer or the circuit. In saying this, I am thinking, of course, of India, Argentina or even Valencia at the end of 2024. But it is rarer that drivers do not want to race; that they boycott, that is. Let's go back in time: it's May 14, 1989, in Misano Adriatico.
Contemporaries lived there in an exceptional situation to say the least. On the Santa Monica circuit (the current Marco Simoncelli route) a new coating had just been applied, but it presented imperfections. In fact, the latter did not drain the rain properly and could prove very dangerous in these conditions. But hey, in Misano, isn't the weather always nice?
The start of the weekend is going wonderfully. Italian fans should normally witness a fantastic explanation. Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson and Kevin Scwhantz are in a close call at the championship. The tension is present from the qualifications, but as often, it is Schwantz who does the best in the exercise. Ready to set off, the American can only perceive threatening gray clouds in the sky, but the race is indeed declared 'dry'.
A season marked by forgotten drivers, like Tadahiko Taora, here in Japan.
The lions are unleashed. Schwantz made a huge start, but was quickly caught by Pierfrancesco Chili on Honda Gallina.
What had to happen happened. Mother Nature cries, forcing Kevin Schwantz, in the lead, to raise his hand to stop the race. Normally, a new start, wet this time, should be given, but the track is far too dangerous. A discussion takes place between the pilots and the organization; those concerned want at least one trial session to test the conditions and gain confidence. The organization categorically refuses, and requests a departure shortly.
After consultation, the drivers decided to boycott the race. In theory, when Lawson, Schwantz, Rainey, or Doohan refuse to run, no one goes. This could very well have ended in a Grand Prix cancellation… except that Chili, who was fighting in front, absolutely wants to run! Starting at 5:40 p.m., the second race is a parody of the Grand Prix. The drivers are not going fast at all, as the track is so dangerous. Only “Franky” Chili came out on top, and triumphed with a 30-second lead. His only victory in 500cc therefore remains quite controversial. He is joined on the podium by an illustrious unknown, Simon Buckmaster.
A year marked by illustrious drivers, like Wayne Rainey.
This Briton had never done better than 12th in 35 Grand Prix, and suddenly found himself propelled to second place! Beautiful memories. Unfortunately, the latter was amputated following a terrible accident at the Bol d'Or a few years later. In third place is an even more obscure pilot; a German named Michael Rudolff. Of course, this is his only career podium. But the best surprise comes one place behind! It's the legendary Fior of Marco Gentile which finishes 1'32'' behind the winner! A great reward for the particular architecture of the Fiors, which will undoubtedly be the subject of another article.
This particular Grand Prix was clearly not the most exciting. It allowed us to discover pilots, but above all men, destinies. Gentlemen, you took risks, you insisted on running, and we can only congratulate you.
Did you know this anecdote? Tell us in the comments!
In the end, Eddie Lawson was still crowned world champion.
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