Sebastian Vettel, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, recently shared why he felt compelled to lead a tribute to Ayrton Senna at Imola this weekend. Vettel will drive Senna’s 1993 McLaren MP4/8 for a ceremonial lap on Sunday at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, marking thirty years since Senna’s tragic passing at the same circuit.
To honor Senna’s memory in the paddock, Vettel organized a special track run on Thursday. Drivers from F1, F2, and F3 participated, wearing ‘Forever’ shirts with Senna’s iconic yellow helmet design. This event aimed to celebrate the legendary Brazilian driver and his lasting impact on the sport.
In a pre-event interview, Vettel addressed whether Formula 1 was advancing quickly enough in terms of safety. “It’s never fast enough,” he stated. “High speeds inherently bring danger, and motorsport remains a risky endeavor.” Vettel reflected on the significant safety changes prompted by Senna’s death.
“After that terrible weekend, drivers united, and Michael Schumacher was instrumental in pushing the GPDA to collaborate with the FIA and Formula 1 to enhance track safety. Current drivers benefit from those changes, even though they originated from a tragedy,” Vettel noted.
“There were over ten years before that weekend without a fatality in Formula 1,” Vettel continued. “In 2014, I faced a similar situation when Jules Bianchi’s accident highlighted motorsport’s dangers. Bianchi’s death prompted significant safety improvements, although such events shouldn’t be the catalyst for change.”
“After dark times, the racing community bands together to expedite safety advancements. Even when it seems everything is safe, there’s always more that can be done.”
Vettel spoke highly of Senna’s broad legacy. “Ayrton represented many causes and had an extraordinary spirit. He inspired countless people during his life, and his influence continues today. That inspiration is passed to future generations, which is why I’m here—to recount his story and keep his memory alive.”
“This tribute isn’t about me. It’s about honoring Senna, his legacy, and inspiring current drivers with his story.” Vettel added, “That dreadful weekend led to thorough scrutiny of circuits, making tracks safer, expanding runoffs, changing layouts, improving cars, and strengthening chassis. Although it was a dark time, the resulting safety measures benefitted me directly.”
Many current drivers regard Senna as one of the greatest F1 drivers ever, and he influenced them during their formative years. For Vettel, Senna’s off-track contributions are just as meaningful as his on-track accomplishments.
“As a driver, I was deeply inspired by Senna’s success and by working with people who knew him. Understanding what made him special in the car was enlightening. His wins, poles, and races are only part of his story; there’s more to him than just his results.”
“Senna’s character and his impact in Brazil are unparalleled. He wasn’t just a popular sports figure; he embraced his role and aimed to inspire and improve his country. Senna pushed for education, fought poverty, and tried to make a difference. It’s tragic his story ended prematurely because he had so much more to offer both on and off the track.”
Vettel’s tribute underscores Senna’s profound influence on the sport and its drivers. As Vettel leads the tribute at Imola, he ensures Senna’s spirit continues to inspire future generations, honoring both his racing prowess and humanitarian efforts.