Brazilian Grand Prix 1989 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Nigel Mansell marked his return to Ferrari with a fairytale victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix, controlling the race from pole position in a performance that thrilled the Rio crowd. The Briton held off Alain Prost's charging McLaren-Honda through the final laps, demonstrating both speed and tactical maturity to claim Ferrari's first victory since Gerhard Berger's 1988 triumph. Maurizio Gugelmin secured a popular podium for March in front of his home fans, while Ayrton Senna retired after colliding with Gerhard Berger on the opening lap.

The Brazilian Grand Prix established the competitive landscape for 1989 - McLaren-Honda remained the benchmark but Ferrari could win with their semi-automatic gearbox when circumstances favored them. Mansell's victory was particularly significant as it marked his return to the Scuderia after a year's sabbatical, proving he remained one of Formula 1's fastest drivers. The Senna-Berger collision foreshadowed a difficult season for the defending champion, who would win six races but lose the championship in controversial circumstances at Suzuka. Prost's move to Ferrari would be announced mid-season, setting up an explosive finale to his McLaren partnership with Senna.