This postponed start of the 2020 season in MotoGP is causing a lot of noise. Even if the circumstances are special, many other rounds have been canceled or boycotted by the drivers. Let's go back in time: it's May 14, 1989, in Misano Adriatico.
Contemporaries lived there in an exceptional situation to say the least. On the Santa-Monica circuit (the current Marco Simoncelli route) a new coating had just been applied, but which presented imperfections. In fact, the latter did not drain the rain properly and could prove very dangerous in these conditions. But hey, in Misano, isn't the weather always nice?
The start of the weekend is going wonderfully. Italian fans will, normally, see a wonderful explanation. Wayne Rainey, Eddie Lawson and Kevin Schwantz are in a tight spot for the championship.
Eddie Lawson declared that the track was really too dangerous and the limits exceeded. Ironically, he was seen cheering the drivers on the track from the stands. Photo: Stu Newby
La tension est présente dès les qualifications, mais comme souvent, c’est Schwantz qui s’en sort le mieux dans l’exercice. Prêt à s’élancer, l’Américain ne peut percevoir que des menaçant nuages gris dans le ciel, mais la course est bien déclarée “sèche”.
The lions are unleashed. Schwantz made a huge start, but was quickly caught by Pierfrancesco Chili on Honda Gallina. What had to happen happened. Mother Nature cries, forcing Kevin Schwantz, in the lead, to raise his hand to stop the race.
Normally, a new start, wet this time, should be given, but the track is far too dangerous. A discussion takes place between the pilots and the organization: those concerned want at least one trial session to test the conditions and gain confidence. The organization categorically refuses, and requests a departure shortly.
After consultation, the drivers decided to boycott the race. In theory, when Lawson, Schwantz, Rainey, or Doohan refuse to run, no one goes there. This could very well have ended in a Grand Prix cancellation... Except that Chili, who was fighting in front, absolutely wanted to race!
Starting at 17:40 p.m., the second race is a parody of the Grand Prix. The drivers are not going fast at all, as the track is so dangerous. Only “Franky” Chili did well, and won the grand prize with a 30-second lead. His only victory in 500cc therefore remains quite controversial. He is joined on the podium by an illustrious unknown, Simon Buckmaster.
It doesn't rain often in Misano, but when it does, it usually leads to difficulties. Remember the 2015 edition, with a podium for Scott Reding...despite the fact that he fell. Photo: Toni Pecoraro
This Briton had never done better than 12th in 35 Grand Prix, and suddenly found himself propelled to second place! Beautiful memories. Unfortunately, the latter was amputated following a terrible accident at the Bol d'Or a few years later.
In third place is an even more obscure driver, a German named Michael Rudolff. Of course, this is his only career podium. But the best surprise comes one place behind! It's the legendary Fior of Marco Gentile which finishes 1'32'' behind the winner! A great reward for the particular architecture of the Fiors, which will undoubtedly be the subject of another article.
This particular Grand Prix was clearly not the most exciting. It allows you to discover pilots, but above all men, and destinies. Gentlemen, you took risks, you insisted on running, and we can only congratulate you.
