Senna's Legacy: 30 Years of Impact on F1 Drivers

Thirty years after Ayrton Senna’s death, his influence resonates deeply, blending legendary skill with profound social contributions.

It has been 30 years since Ayrton Senna lost his life during the tragic weekend at Imola in 1994.

Three decades later, the Brazilian remains an absolute legend in the paddock, continuing to inspire current drivers.

Particularly one: Lewis Hamilton, whose admiration for Senna is well known.

Thirty years on, what can Hamilton say about the legend of McLaren F1?

“It’s a tough question. I’ve spoken so much about Ayrton that I really don’t have much else to say, except that he remains in our hearts and in the sport and he is still a role model.”

“And his family, I think, are doing an excellent job with the foundation, continuing to help children. But yes, there’s nothing else to say that I haven’t already said.”

Lance Stroll, the Aston Martin F1 driver, also uses the word legend to describe Senna.

“Yes, he’s a sports legend and someone who changed the sport in many ways. He was a legend on the track, but also off the track. He had a voice. He helped Brazil in many ways and really, I think, took the sport to another level. And even from the drivers’ side, he evolved the work ethic, setting a new standard in how drivers work. So yes, he is really, definitely an incredible sports legend.”

“I don’t think the number of years matters. The legacy will always live on – and he will always be a legend and never forgotten,” adds Valtteri Bottas.

As Ayrton Senna’s distant successor at McLaren F1, does Oscar Piastri feel inspired or overwhelmed by the Brazilian’s legacy?

“He spent a great part of his career at McLaren. So, I think for us, it’s very, very special to have this legacy. Personally, I obviously wasn’t born when he was racing, but reading the stories, watching the documentaries, seeing some videos of his qualifying laps, things like that, it’s a huge source of inspiration. Yes, I think it’s a good thing that we continue to celebrate him. And whether it’s in 30 years, 50 years, 150 years… the legacy will still be there. And yes, it’s very special for all of us.”

Sergio Pérez finally highlights two things about Senna: his courage and his generosity.

“It’s very special to have had a figure like him. He was an extraordinary race driver, very brave. But what I admire most is his behavior outside the car, what he did for his country, for children, for younger generations. I think that’s what truly inspires me about Ayrton. And yes, it’s great that the family continues to do good work with his foundation and as Ayrton did when he was driving in Formula 1. So yes, he’s a wonderful human being and that’s why his legacy is so important in our sport.”