On this day in Formula One history, the 1994 season’s controversies spilled into Spa. Michael Schumacher crossed the line first in the Belgian Grand Prix, but post-race scrutineering found excessive wear on his Benetton’s wooden plank — leading to disqualification and handing victory to Damon Hill. It was a moment that kept alive a championship battle already shaped by suspicion, penalties, and tragedy, and one that showed how Formula One’s technical rules could decide titles as much as talent.
We also revisit Jordan’s breakthrough moment, with Rubens Barrichello claiming the team’s first pole position in only their fourth season — a landmark that proved independents could still shock the establishment. From there, we look back to 1983 and René Arnoux’s final Formula One win at Zandvoort, as well as the debut of McLaren’s TAG-Porsche turbo engine. And we pause to remember Phil Hill, America’s first World Champion, who passed away on this day in 2008.
From disqualifications and debut poles to final triumphs and lasting legacies, this is the story of August 28 in racing’s rich and chequered past.
Cover Photo: By Martin Lee - Michael Schumacher - Benetton 194 at the 1994 British Grand Prix, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Music by #Mubert Music Rendering
