Honouring the Legacy of Ayrton Senna: A Celebration at Silverstone Festival

Ayrton Senna left an unparalleled legacy, continuing to be recognised as one of the greatest icons in Formula 1 around the world. His impact goes beyond the racetrack, not only for his immense talent as a driver but also for the extraordinary person he was, spreading kindness and inspiration wherever he went. We at Avesso Magazine are incredibly excited to be part of the Silverstone Festival once again, a spectacular event held during the summer in the UK, where we will celebrate the legacy of one of Brazil’s greatest heroes.

As a Brazilian and an admirer of Ayrton Senna’s work, it will be a true privilege to speak with his nephew, Bruno Senna. I’m certain these will be unforgettable moments, filled with memories and tributes to Ayrton’s journey, which has influenced and continues to influence millions of people around the world.

Lotus, McLaren, Toleman, and Williams: F1 icons on display:

- Bruno Senna to drive one of his uncle’s iconic cars

- Single-seaters, rally and road cars, plus bikes, form part of this unique homage

- Memorabilia, art, and merchandise complete the tributes

- Best prices available for those booking in advance

The largest and most impressive collection of Ayrton Senna cars ever assembled will be one of the main attractions at this month’s Silverstone Festival (23-25 August).

The Silverstone circuit, where the legendary Brazilian driver won more races than anywhere else, will host a special exhibition featuring more than 25 displays that span Senna’s entire career, from his early karting competitions to his three World Championship titles in Formula 1.

Adding to the excitement, Ayrton’s niece, Lalalli Senna, will be exhibiting her artwork at the Festival, while his nephew, Bruno Senna, will be there not only to meet and greet visitors but also to drive one of his uncle’s F1 cars on the legendary Silverstone Grand Prix circuit on Saturday.

“Ayrton Senna was one of the greatest and most inspirational F1 drivers of all time, and to honour his legacy, we were determined to celebrate his remarkable achievements at Silverstone, where he enjoyed so much success in Formula Ford, Formula 3, and Formula 1,” said Nick Wigley, Event Director. “This will be the most comprehensive collection of Senna cars ever assembled, and it’s highly unlikely such an incredible gathering will ever be seen again. This event is not to be missed.”

This exceptional tribute has been organised with the full support of the Senna family and Senna Brands. “Ayrton always had a very strong connection with Silverstone. His motorsport history includes memorable victories at this circuit, and he raced for British teams. We are thrilled to participate in this year’s Festival, especially as we celebrate 30 years of Senna’s legacy,” said Bianca Senna, CEO of Senna Brands and the triple world champion’s niece. “We congratulate and thank everyone who is making this brilliant celebration possible – it is undoubtedly a wonderful tribute that will move fans worldwide.”

“Silverstone Festival is putting together an amazing tribute to honour Ayrton's legacy,” added Bruno Senna, who is delighted to be commemorating his uncle’s outstanding achievements. “Even 30 years later, Ayrton is still extremely influential and beloved by millions of people around the world, so it’s hugely exciting to be part of this occasion and among so many of his iconic cars.”

Ayrton Senna began his career in karting, racing from a young age, and gained prominence when he won the South American Karting Championship in 1977. His dedication and skill drove him to seek new opportunities in Europe, where he quickly established himself as one of the most promising drivers.

In 1981, Senna moved to England and advanced to single-seaters, winning both the RAC and Townsend Thoresen Formula Ford 1600 titles with the cutting-edge Van Diemen team. He made his Silverstone debut that year, taking pole position but narrowly missing out on victory due to a controversial chicane cut by his closest rival on the final lap.

The following season, Senna continued to impress by winning both the British and European Formula Ford 2000 championships, with two victories at Silverstone. In 1983, he secured the coveted British Formula Three Championship title with no fewer than six victories at Silverstone, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest talents in motorsport.

The Silverstone Festival display will include all three of these title-winning cars: a Van Diemen RF81 FF1600, a Van Diemen RF82 FF2000, and an evocative Ralt RT3.

In addition, 12 stunning F1 cars – representing all four teams for which Senna competed – will be on display to honour his record-breaking decade on the Formula 1 grid. These will include the Williams FW08, the Toleman TG183B, the Lotus 97T, and a series of McLaren MP4s, including the legendary MP4/4, in which he claimed his first World Championship title.

Another highlight will be the 1990 V10-powered McLaren MP4/5B, which played a crucial role in Senna’s World Championship victory that year, in one of the most memorable seasons in Formula 1 history.

The Silverstone Festival will also feature two rally cars that Senna drove in Wales, as well as two Honda NSXs, supercars he helped develop with the Japanese manufacturer.

Paying tribute to Senna on two wheels, the Festival will display three Ducati 916 Senna motorcycles, which were launched with Ayrton’s approval shortly before he died in 1994. The net proceeds from these editions were donated to the Ayrton Senna Institute, and examples of all three versions will be presented at Silverstone.

Further honouring the Brazilian, a collection of his rarely-seen trophies, race suits, and helmets will be on display throughout the Festival at the award-winning Silverstone Museum, with entry included in the event admission price.

The Museum will also house sculptures created by the artist Lalalli Senna, including pieces that replicate the 3.5-metre-high bust of Ayrton that stands at the Interlagos circuit in Brazil.

Visitors will also have the opportunity to pay tribute to Senna’s 30-year legacy at Escapade Silverstone, where diners will be treated to Senna-inspired artwork on the ESC. Clubhouse walls. There will also be a chance to purchase official Senna merchandise.

A wide range of tickets – including camping and hospitality options – are available with the best prices for those booking in advance. For full details on all tickets: https://www.silverstone.co.uk/events/silverstone-festival

Photos Credit - Silverstone Official