Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost collision at 1990 Japanese Grand Prix

The 1990 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka marked a definitive moment in the intense rivalry between Formula 1 drivers Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost. The incident was deeply rooted in the controversies of the 1989 season, where a collision between the two at the same circuit led to Senna's disqualification and Prost being crowned champion. Following disputes regarding FIA leadership and Senna's subsequent fine and license suspension, the two competitors faced off again in 1990, with Prost now driving for Ferrari.

During the 1990 race, Senna held a significant points advantage and secured pole position. However, a dispute arose regarding the starting grid positions, as the pole sitter was required to start from the dirty side of the track. After the FIA rejected Senna's request to switch sides, Senna warned that he would not yield the lead at the first corner. As the race began, Prost took the lead, but Senna attempted an aggressive maneuver at the first turn. The resulting collision caused both drivers to crash out of the race immediately, leaving both men uninjured but ending their competitive involvement in the event.