South African Grand Prix 1993 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Alain Prost opened the 1993 season with a commanding victory at Kyalami in his comeback from a one-year sabbatical, immediately establishing Williams-Renault as the team to beat once again. The four-time World Champion dominated from pole position in the FW15C, demonstrating that his skills hadn't diminished despite a year away from racing. Prost's calculated performance signaled his intent to claim an unprecedented fifth world title and proved that Williams had maintained their technical superiority from 1992.

Ayrton Senna finished second for McLaren after pushing hard throughout the race, though the Brazilian lacked the pace to seriously challenge Prost's Williams. Senna's performance highlighted McLaren's struggles with their customer Ford engines after losing Honda, though the three-time champion's racecraft ensured he maximized his car's potential. Mark Blundell claimed a surprise third place for Ligier-Renault, capitalizing on retirements to score his first podium finish.

The race marked the beginning of an intense rivalry between former teammates Prost and Senna, now reunited as competitors after their acrimonious McLaren partnership. Williams' dominance continued from 1992, with the FW15C featuring active suspension, traction control, and other advanced electronics. The season opener suggested another year of Williams superiority, though the championship battle would prove more competitive than expected.