Forty-six drivers competed in the 1994 World Championship, including fourteen making their F1 debut, and numerous pay drivers. Mercedes-Benz returned to the sport for the first time since , as an engine supplier to Swiss team Sauber. The season also saw the first win for Ferrari since , whilst McLaren, following the departure of Senna, endured their first winless season since . 1994 was also the final season for the original Team Lotus, one of the most successful constructors in Formula One history, as well as the last Formula One season for runner-up Michele Alboreto.