Hamilton saddened Ayrton Senna secret was leaked. Read more
Lewis Hamilton has expressed disappointment over a leaked plan that was intended to surprise fans with a tribute to Ayrton Senna during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, is set to drive Senna’s 1990 championship-winning McLaren MP4-5B on the Saturday of the Grand Prix, following the sprint race and qualifying session. This run was intended to honor Senna, who tragically lost his life 30 years ago while leading the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.
Hamilton’s drive marks the second time he has had the privilege of getting behind the wheel of one of Senna’s legendary McLaren F1 cars. His first experience was in 2010 when he drove Senna’s 1988 MP4-4, another title-winning car, as part of a special TV segment on Top Gear with host Jeremy Clarkson. This event also represents a significant moment for Hamilton, as it’s the first time he’s driven a McLaren F1 car since leaving the team at the end of the 2012 season to join Mercedes.
Reflecting on the preparations, Hamilton shared his excitement, noting he had a special suit and helmet created specifically for the tribute. He explained that the plan was for him to go out on the track dressed in a white suit and wearing a helmet reminiscent of Senna’s, creating an image that could momentarily evoke Senna’s presence on the track. “I never in a million years thought I’d get the opportunity to drive Senna’s car here,” Hamilton told media outlets, including RacingNews365.
The secrecy surrounding the tribute was meant to heighten the impact, allowing fans to witness a moving homage without prior expectation. However, Hamilton admitted with regret that news of the demonstration had leaked. “But somehow it got out there, it is impossible to keep things quiet,” he said, expressing his disappointment that the surprise element had been lost.
Senna remains an inspiration for Hamilton, who has frequently paid tribute to the Brazilian icon and his contributions to Formula 1. For Hamilton, Senna’s legacy runs deep; the upcoming demonstration run was intended as a heartfelt nod to the late driver’s memory and to the legendary McLaren cars he piloted to glory.
The tribute will take place on Saturday at Interlagos, where Hamilton’s connection to the local fans and to Senna himself makes this tribute particularly meaningful. Despite the unintended reveal, Hamilton’s demonstration lap is anticipated to be an emotional highlight for fans and followers of Senna’s enduring legacy in Motorsport.
