United States Grand Prix 1989 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Alain Prost ended Ayrton Senna's winning streak with a crucial victory at Phoenix's challenging street circuit, reclaiming championship momentum while his teammate retired after a collision. The Frenchman controlled the race from pole position on the bumpy Arizona layout, demonstrating superior race management and tactical intelligence. Riccardo Patrese secured his second consecutive second-place finish for Williams-Renault, while Eddie Cheever delivered an excellent podium for Arrows on the unforgiving street circuit.

The United States Grand Prix marked a turning point in the championship battle, as Prost's victory combined with Senna's retirement narrowed the points gap substantially. The race was run on Phoenix's temporary street circuit in desert heat, making tire management and concentration critical factors. Prost's smooth driving style proved ideal for preserving his McLaren over the rough surface, while Senna's more aggressive approach contributed to his collision and retirement. The result demonstrated that while Senna had superior qualifying pace, Prost's tactical intelligence and racecraft remained formidable weapons in the championship fight.