20 years ago: the Wall of Champions builds a reputation in Montreal

This is the favorite part of the spectators of the Canadian Grand Prix. The last chicane does not officially have any name other than “Turn 14” and “Turn 15″, but for fans of Formula 1, it is the “Wall of Champions”. This sequence is so named because of its propensity to trap all pilots, the least skillful (Pastor Maldonado in 2012) as well as the most experienced (Sebastian Vettel in 2011, Jenson Button in 2005). 

But it was during the 1999 edition that the chicane acquired its nickname. Four drivers will hit the wall coming out of the corner, starting with Ricardo Zonta (BAR) on the third lap. “I don't know what happened,” commented the Brazilian, “if it was me who made a mistake or if it was the tires' fault. »

The surprise is greater when Damon Hill (Jordan) damages his car on the 15th lap in the same place. It is believed that the competitors still on the track were warned by the treacherous nature of this chicane. However, the leader of the event Michael Schumacher (Ferrari), smashes against the concrete wall on the 30th pass!

“I lost control because I left the line and went into the dirty part of the track. It’s clearly my mistake,” admitted the “Kaiser”.

Five laps after the German, it was the turn of the public's favorite, Jacques Villeneuve (BAR) to take off. Irony of marketing, a large inscription “Welcome to Quebec” welcomes those at fault! 

Did you know?

The 1999 Canadian Grand Prix is the first Formula 1 event to be concluded under a Safety Car regime. The race was neutralized due to the violent exit of the track by Heinz-Harald Frentzen (Jordan) on the 66th of 69 laps. 

The brake disc on the right front wheel of his car exploded at the start of turn 3, causing an accident and pain in his left knee and right shoulder. We will have to wait almost 10 years to find a finish under Safety Car procedure at the 2009 Australian Grand Prix!