Why Silverstone Festival is the Perfect Setting to Celebrate Senna
Senna’s Strong Connection with the UK
Ayrton Senna, the legendary Formula 1 driver, had a strong affinity with the UK throughout his career. He began his racing journey in Britain, competing in Formula Ford at the age of 21. Senna then went on to drive for British teams in Formula 1, including Toleman, Lotus, McLaren, and Williams.
Silverstone: A Special Circuit for Senna
It is interesting to note that Senna achieved more victories at Silverstone than at any other circuit during his career. Although he only won the British Grand Prix once, his overall record at Silverstone was impressive, with a 50% strike rate of 10 wins out of 20 races. This makes Silverstone the perfect venue to celebrate Senna’s life and legacy.
The Silverstone Festival: A Tribute to Senna
In this special year, marking 30 years since Senna’s tragic death, the Silverstone Festival will host the largest collection of Senna-related cars ever gathered. The festival promises to be a tribute that will move fans worldwide and celebrate Senna’s remarkable career.
A Celebration of Historic Motorsport
The Silverstone Festival is not only a tribute to Senna but also a major event in the world of historic motorsport. The festival features packed grids of single-seaters, sports cars, and saloons from various eras, competing in over 20 races on the iconic Grand Prix circuit.
More Than Just Racing
Aside from the thrilling races, the Silverstone Festival offers a range of activities for enthusiasts and visitors. It includes a classic car gathering, a food festival, and a pop concert featuring popular artists such as Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Busted, and Olly Murs.
A Summer of Remembrance
The Silverstone Festival is part of a series of events commemorating Senna’s legacy. Earlier this year, there was a special on-track demonstration at the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique, and emotional tributes were paid at Imola during the Emilia-Romagna GP. The Silverstone gathering will be the culmination of a summer of remembrance, focusing on celebrating Senna’s contributions to the world of motorsport.
A Journey Through Senna’s Career
The Silverstone Festival will feature a wide range of cars that played a significant role in Senna’s career. From his early days in Formula Ford and Formula 3 to his iconic Formula 1 cars, fans will have the opportunity to see and experience the vehicles that shaped Senna’s success.
A Must-Visit Museum
The Silverstone Museum, located at the circuit’s front gate, will be a must-visit during the festival. The museum houses a collection of Senna memorabilia, including trophies, gloves, and the steering wheel from his first win in Estoril, Portugal, in 1985. The festival offers free entry to the museum with a festival ticket.
Celebrating the Senna Mystique
Senna’s association with Silverstone was not without its ups and downs. He faced both cheers and jeers from the British crowd during his career. However, the Silverstone Festival is the perfect time and place to remember and celebrate the light and dark sides of the Senna mystique.
