Jean Alesi
Not many drivers can say they made Ayrton Senna fight to win – but Jean Alesi did just that, and on debut.
The Frenchman made his debut at the French Grand Prix of 1989, driving for Tyrell-Ford alongside Briton Jonathan Palmer. Alesi had gone 7th quickest in the practice session preceding qualifying, and had already impressed watchers. He was unable to replicate that in qualifying, however, and would end up qualifying halfway through the grid in 16th.
He pulled out all the stops during the race, however, and even managed to lead it for a time as he fought Ayrton Senna for the win. The Brazilian would end up retiring as his differential failed, with teammate Alain Prost taking victory as Nigel Mansell and Riccardo Patrese rounded off the podium.
But it was this debut that truly put Alesi on the Formula One map.
