The 1994 Australian Grand Prix, held in Adelaide, marked one of the most controversial outcomes in F1 history. This is where one of the most intense battles for the drivers’ title took place, between Michael Schumacher (Benetton) and Damon Hill (Williams). The latter were only separated by a single small point before the start of the race.
Michael Schumacher was in the lead until he hit a wall. In the process, while trying to block an attempt to overtake Damon Hill, the Benetton driver collided with the Williams driver. This collision caused the retirement of Michael Schumacher, propelled into a wall of tires, but also that of the Briton’s Williams. This situation then allowed Michael Schumacher to win his first world title, amid controversy.
This incident sparked debates about the intentionality of the German’s move, but he nevertheless became World Champion for the first time. We tend to forget it, but Nigel Mansell won the race for Williams (the 31st and final victory of his F1 career), ahead of Gerhard Berger (Ferrari) and Martin Brundle (McLaren-Peugeot). This is how a season marked by many controversies and tragedies ended, such as the deaths of Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger.
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After the checkered flag was lowered in the final race of the 1994 season, Michael Schumacher became F1 World Champion at just 25 years old. In front of the press, the German still recognized the respect he had for Damon Hill.
“This year I made some disrespectful comments towards Damon. I must admit my wrongs. What he did, especially in these last two races, and even before, was fantastic. He was a great rival and I apologize for what I said about him.”
For his part, Damon Hill did not want to put his finger in the easy spiral of controversy, already turning to the 1995 season, won by a certain… Michael Schumacher.
“I gave everything I could in this race. A terrible ordeal. All I can say now is that it didn’t end in the best way for me. People got what they paid for and we gave them something to talk about for years to come! Schumacher certainly felt the pressure on him, hence his exit. I saw the opportunity to pass. I had to try, it was a race. It will be for next year!”
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