The 1994 Formula 1 season is widely considered one of the most tragic and controversial in the sport's history. It saw the death of three-time World Champion Ayrton Senna, as well as Roland Ratzenberger, at the San Marino Grand Prix. Michael Schumacher won his first World Championship, though his season was marred by a suspension and disqualification that sparked intense debate over the title's legitimacy.
During the San Marino Grand Prix at Imola, three-time World Champion Ayrton Senna suffered a fatal crash at the Tamburello corner, leading to his death. This followed the death of Roland Ratzenberger in qualifying the day before.
Michael Schumacher won the Monaco Grand Prix, the first race after the tragic events at Imola. The race was started under a safety car for the first time in Formula 1 history due to wet conditions.
Johnny Herbert scored his first Formula 1 victory at the British Grand Prix, driving for Benetton. Michael Schumacher was disqualified from the race after ignoring a black flag.
Following his disqualification at the British Grand Prix and failing to attend a disciplinary hearing, Michael Schumacher was banned for two races by the FIA, forcing him to miss the Hungarian and Belgian Grands Prix.
Michael Schumacher won the Belgian Grand Prix on the track but was disqualified after his Benetton was found to have illegal wear on a wooden plank underneath the car.
Nigel Mansell won the 1994 Australian Grand Prix for Williams, marking his 31st and final Formula 1 victory.
In the final race of the season in Adelaide, Michael Schumacher collided with Damon Hill, resulting in Schumacher's retirement and Hill's withdrawal. Schumacher secured his first World Championship as a result of the points standings.