Video: The duel – Alesi vs Senna US F1 Grand Prix 1990

One of the greatest battles in F1 history was the fierce duel between Jean Alesi and Ayrton Senna at the US Grand Prix at Phoenix in 1990.

Tyrrell driver Jean Alesi, in just his ninth Grand Prix start, rocketed into the lead from fourth on the grid, and much to everyone’s surprise led for half the race before Senna caught him and the two began a mighty battle.

Senna made a move and passed Alesi only for the young Frenchman to instantly to pass him back, with the two of them trading position over the next couple of laps until Senna  made a move stick and went on to win the race comfortably.

Alesi hung on to the end, crossing the line only eight seconds behind Senna to score a stunning second place. The result thrust him into the F1 spotlight and made him a target for Williams and ultimately Ferrari.