Spanish Grand Prix 1989 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Ayrton Senna claimed a crucial victory at Jerez's Spanish Grand Prix, keeping his fading championship hopes mathematically alive heading into the Japanese finale. The Brazilian controlled the race from pole position while Gerhard Berger delivered Ferrari's third consecutive podium with second place. Alain Prost secured third to maintain his commanding championship advantage, needing only to finish ahead of Senna at Suzuka to claim the title regardless of the Brazilian's result.

The Spanish Grand Prix set up a dramatic championship finale at Suzuka, though Prost's 16-point advantage made him the overwhelming favorite. Senna's victory demonstrated his superior speed, but the championship mathematics meant even with maximum points from Japan and Australia, he would need Prost to suffer poor results to steal the title. The race highlighted the season's competitive dynamics - Senna faster but less consistent, Prost slower but tactically superior and more reliable. The toxic relationship between the McLaren teammates was now public knowledge, with both drivers barely speaking and accusations of favoritism and gamesmanship poisoning their partnership irreparably.