Italian Grand Prix 1989 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Alain Prost claimed a crucial victory at Monza's Italian Grand Prix, controlling the race from pole position while teammate Ayrton Senna retired with engine failure. The Frenchman's win on Ferrari's home circuit was particularly satisfying given he'd already announced his move to the Scuderia for 1990, delighting the Tifosi who would soon welcome him as their new champion. Gerhard Berger delivered Ferrari's best result with second place, while Thierry Boutsen completed the podium for Williams.

The Italian Grand Prix proved pivotal in the championship battle, as Prost's victory combined with Senna's retirement extended his points lead dramatically heading into the final races. The Monza result demonstrated Prost's superior consistency and reliability, qualities that would ultimately prove decisive in the championship fight. His performance was a tactical masterclass, managing the race perfectly while Senna's Honda V10 engine failed. The Tifosi's enthusiasm for Prost was tempered by Ferrari's inability to win their home race, though Berger's second place provided some consolation. The championship was now Prost's to lose heading into Portugal, Spain, and the decisive Japanese finale.