An eerie calm before a massive storm at Suzuka

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As they prepared for their Japanese GP showdown on this day in 1989, McLaren drivers Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna could hardly have suspected how the afternoon would unfold.

At Suzuka, the Frenchmant was hoping to put the finishing touch to a successful season, but his team mate wasn't about to give up on his own title hopes.

Senna required a win to prevent the 'Professor' from bagging the championship. When the lights went out, the pair raced off into the distance, unassailable and dominant.

But six laps from the checkered flag, with Prost leading, Senna attempted a risky move at the chicane that saw the two McLaren cars collide.

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The Brazilian extricated himself from the chicane - with the help of the marshals - and went on to win while Prost was left stranded.

Senna was later excluded from the race results however, for receiving outside help and cutting the chicane.

It was one of the most controversial and debated moments in the history of F1. Ultimately however, Prost would have the last word.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.