Ayrton Senna, one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time, is a figure who transcends the world of racing and touches the hearts of fans and admirers worldwide. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Senna not only won three World Championships but also left a lasting legacy with his skill, courage, and passion for motorsport.
His aggressive driving style and memorable performances under adverse conditions marked an era and raised the level of the sport. In addition to his feats on the track, Senna is remembered for his altruistic spirit and dedication to social causes, evidenced by the Ayrton Senna Institute, which continues to impact the lives of thousands of children and young people in Brazil. In this text, we will explore some fascinating curiosities about the life and career of this eternal icon, revealing lesser-known details that help understand the profound impact Ayrton Senna had on the world.
1 – HE LOVED MOTORSPORT FROM A YOUNG AGE
Ayrton Senna was born in São Paulo, Brazil, on March 21, 1960. Raised in a wealthy and prestigious family, he had the opportunity to explore various places from a young age.
His love for motorsport began at the age of four when he received a go-kart as a gift from his parents. From that moment on, he dedicated himself completely to racing.
2 – HE DID SEVERAL TESTS
Before joining a Formula 1 team, Senna participated in tests with various teams, including Toleman, which was his first team. He also did tests for McLaren before formalizing his contract with the team in 1988.
3 – BOLD
Ayrton Senna was famous for his bold driving style. He did not hesitate to take risks to secure victory, which made him one of the most exciting and unpredictable drivers of his era.
4 – SENNA WON THREE WORLD TITLES
Ayrton Senna won three Formula 1 World Championships throughout his career: 1988 – Senna won his first world championship with McLaren-Honda, establishing himself as one of the best drivers of the era. His exceptional skill under adverse conditions and aggressive racing strategy were key to his success. 1990 – In his second season with McLaren-Honda, Senna won his second world title.
The competition was intense, but his skill and consistency throughout the season secured him the championship, further cementing his reputation in motorsport. 1991 – Senna won his third and final world title with McLaren-Honda, once again showcasing his superiority and dominance on the track. He demonstrated a perfect combination of talent, technique, and courage, making him one of the greatest Formula 1 drivers of all time.
5 – THE RIVALRY BETWEEN SENNA AND PROST
The rivalry between Senna and Prost is widely seen as one of the most intense in Formula 1. Both drivers are considered among the best in the history of the sport, and their competition was marked by bold driving and relentless determination to win. Prost, who joined McLaren in 1984 alongside Niki Lauda, won his first world titles in 1985 and 1986. It was Prost who persuaded McLaren to hire Senna from Lotus in 1988, marking the beginning of the rivalry.
Senna edged out Prost for the 1988 title, and tensions increased in the following years with accusations of favoritism towards Senna, leading Prost to move to Ferrari in 1990. This intensified the rivalry between McLaren and Ferrari.
6 – SENNA WAS ATTENTIVE TO HIS FANS
Ayrton Senna was widely recognized for his dedication to his fans. He often made a point to stop and interact with those who approached him on the streets, always taking time for autographs and photos.
Additionally, he had the desire to create a charity organization in Brazil to support children in vulnerable situations.
7 – HE WAS A ROCK FAN AND RECEIVED A TRIBUTE FROM TINA TURNER
Ayrton Senna was also famous for his love of music, especially rock. He often listened to bands like Queen and The Beatles while preparing for races. In addition to these bands, Senna was a fan of singer Tina Turner.
On one occasion, while attending one of her concerts, Tina Turner invited him on stage, revealed that she was his admirer, and dedicated the song “The Best” to him.
8 – MONACO HONORED THE DRIVER
The Monaco circuit, where Senna achieved six victories throughout his career, now features a monument in his honor at one of the corners. Unveiled in 2017 by Prince Albert II, the statue in tribute to the driver is located at the Fairmont corner, which also houses the hotel of the same name.
Additionally, the hotel has offered a specially decorated suite named after Senna.
9 – RECORDS AND MORE RECORDS
Senna is the greatest winner in McLaren’s history, with 35 victories. He also holds the record for pole positions with McLaren, having achieved 46 of his 65 career poles with the team. He is the most successful Brazilian in F1 with 41 victories and holds the record for pole positions by a Brazilian in F1 with 65, more than double the second place on the list.
10 – THE DREAM OF RACING FOR FERRARI
Senna always had the desire to race for Ferrari, but he never had the opportunity. However, Luca di Montezemolo, who was the president of the Italian team at the time, revealed that in 1994 there were intense negotiations to make this happen.
“He wanted to come to Ferrari and I wanted to have him on the team”, said the executive, shortly before the driver’s death.
11 – DISASTROUS DEATH
Ayrton Senna died in an accident during the San Marino Grand Prix on May 1, 1994. The accident occurred at the Tamburello corner when the suspension of his car failed, causing him to lose control and crash into a wall at an estimated speed of approximately 310 km/h.
Senna suffered fatal head and skull injuries, and his death shocked the motorsport world deeply.
12 – THE LEGACY OF AN ICON
Despite his premature death, Ayrton Senna’s legacy continues to inspire people around the world. His pursuit of excellence, love for motorsport, and philanthropic work continue to influence many to this day. Additionally, in his memory, the “Ayrton Senna Institute Foundation” was created, founded in 1994 by Viviane Senna, Ayrton Senna’s sister, with the goal of promoting quality education for children and young people in vulnerable situations in Brazil. The foundation aims to transform lives through education, using the methodology developed by Senna and his team to improve teaching and learning in schools.
The foundation works in partnership with governments, companies, and institutions to implement educational projects, train teachers, and create programs aimed at reducing educational inequality. Its initiatives include training educators, developing educational materials, and creating more stimulating learning environments. The foundation’s mission is to ensure that children and young people have access to quality educational opportunities, helping to build a better future for them and for society as a whole.
Ayrton Senna left an indelible mark on Formula 1 and the lives of millions of people around the world. His passion for speed, exceptional skills, and courage on the track made him one of the greatest drivers in motorsport history.
In addition to his impressive triumphs, such as his three world championships, Senna was also admired for his dedication to his fans and his desire to make a difference outside of racing. His involvement with music and his intention to establish a charity reflect his multifaceted and generous character.
The tragedy of his premature death in 1994 did not erase his legacy; rather, it solidified his lasting influence.
The Ayrton Senna Institute Foundation continues to honor his memory by promoting the education of children in vulnerable situations, perpetuating the spirit of his mission to transform lives through education and inspire future generations.