Schumacher Collector – 1994-1995: The new star

This article can be found in our Collector Michael Schumacher. 132 pages retracing the career of the seven-time World Champion Formula 1, available in our online store in format paper ou PRESENCE.

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, which had benefited the most from it, will be the main victim of this change of regulations.

Now linked to Peugeot , McLaren must also survive the post-Senna era, which has joined Sir Frank's (Williams) team. As for Ferrari, she has not won for three years. This redistribution of the cards plays into the hands of Benetton, who will reach maturity in 1994. Technically, its B194 is a descendant of John Barnard's B191. If the latter left enstone for a long time, the Italian-English team has not lacked 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 will run out of steam in its wake.

The only world champion left in the running, Senna appears to be the big favourite, so much so that Schumacher and Benetton's stated objective is only towards second place.