On this day in F1 – 8th November 1992
In what should’ve been ‘Our Nige’s’ last race in formula one, ended with a big shunt with his long term rival, Ayrton Senna during the Australian Grand Prix.
He was to return to F1 after a spell at Indycar in the USA (champion in the first year of trying). In an underwhelming manner, raced six times for McLaren in 1994 – 95 but that’s another story.
Australian Grand Prix ended in acrimony and disappointment after he collided with Senna while contesting the lead.
He walked across the track to avoid a confrontation with Senna, and then slammed stewards for not taking action and his own Williams team for not backing his cause.
“I’m glad I’m out of it. He just rammed me at 40mph faster than I was going. I ran across the track [otherwise] there would have been a big fight and I don’t think that’s the way to leave F1.
Certain people can get away with what they want.”
Senna’s team mate, Berger won the race. The Brazilian was rather more circumspect about the race:
“I think he has been complaining but that’s normal for him. He always complains.”
#OURNIGE
With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
Nigel was clumsy and naturally crash prone, he never neeeded Senna’s help to look a fool. At least he won in 1992. With Prost out, Piquet retired, Senna stuck in an unreliable truck and Schumacher barely a rookie, someone had to guide the FW14B to the easiest and least impressive WDC ever.
Still, he beat his team mate in the same car
…something Hamilton is struggling to do this year against Rosberg, and failed to do against Button over their entire three years together.
Potential great indeed.
And won the indycar championship a year later as a “rookie”.
To beat a fading Patrese, a crowning achievement.
Mansell beat Piquet in 86 and would have champion then if not for a blown tyre. Was competitive again in 87. He could be clumsy yes, but he could also be very quick, and he wasn’t afraid to take anyone on.
With The Internet, Doing A Basic Research Is So Easy For Some, And So Difficult For Others – Oh, Well.
REDFIVE FOREVER !