Lewis Hamilton is set to pay tribute to racing legend Ayrton Senna at this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix.
The seven-time world champion will have the rare opportunity to drive Senna’s iconic 1990 McLaren F1 car around the Interlagos circuit.
This emotional tribute marks 30 years since Senna’s tragic passing at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.
Hamilton expressed his excitement, saying, “I never in a million years thought I’d ever get to drive Senna’s car here.”
However, the British driver also voiced his disappointment that the planned surprise had been leaked to the public.
Hamilton shared details of the planned tribute, revealing that he had a special helmet made to resemble Senna’s.
Lewis Hamilton was not happy his big plan was leaked before the Brazilian Grand Prix
Reuters
The original concept was for Hamilton to wear an all-white suit and Senna’s helmet, creating the illusion of the late Brazilian driver on track.
“I think the initial hope was for it to be a surprise,” Hamilton explained.
“[I would wear] an all-white suit and his helmet and you’d go out and drive the lap and it would just look like it was him out there.”
Despite the leak, Hamilton remains enthusiastic about the opportunity. He recalled driving Senna’s MP44 at Silverstone during his time with McLaren, describing it as “incredible”.
Hamilton’s emotional connection to this tribute runs deep. He reminisced about Senna’s victories at Interlagos, saying, “I remember the races when he finally won here and held the flag.”
The British driver anticipates an emotional experience, hoping fans will witness this special moment.
“It will definitely be quite an emotional experience and I hope people are here to see it,” Hamilton shared.
This tribute not only honours Senna’s legacy but also highlights Hamilton’s profound respect for the Brazilian icon.
The opportunity to drive Senna’s car at Interlagos, where the late driver achieved memorable victories, adds a poignant layer to this homage.
Despite his enthusiasm, Hamilton expressed frustration over the leaked plans. “Somehow it got out there. It’s impossible to keep things quiet,” he lamented.
Lewis Hamilton had planned a touching tribute to Ayrton Senna
Reuters
The original intention was to create a surprise tribute, with Hamilton donning an all-white suit and Senna’s helmet.
This would have created the illusion of Senna himself driving the lap.
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Lewis Hamilton said it is ‘impossible to keep things quiet’
Reuters
Although the element of surprise has been lost, the tribute remains a significant moment.
It allows fans to witness a living legend honouring one of the sport’s greatest icons on the very track where Senna achieved some of his most memorable victories.