Today marks the 30th anniversary of the tragic crash that took the life of Ayrton Senna at the Imola circuit. Robin Frijns, who raced at this circuit in the WEC this month, found it to be a poignant moment. Like many others, Senna was a hero to him. But not just him.
“I was only 2 years old when Ayrton Senna had his fatal accident. Yet, like everyone else, I remember him from the footage, both as a racer and as a person. A phenomenon.
I understand that I’m not telling you anything new. But still, it’s been 30 years. These are the moments, the significant milestones, when perhaps even more attention is paid to him, to memories and achievements. And to who he was as a person, both inside and outside the paddock. A driver with character, I think. Someone who said what he thought. I appreciate that. That’s how I am too.”
Reflections on Formula 1: The Legacy of Senna and the Impact of Verstappen
Consider the current state of Formula 1, a time far removed from the era of Senna. More and more drivers simply say what is expected of them, even a Lewis Hamilton. However, one who certainly does not conform to this norm is Max Verstappen. That much is clear. It’s refreshing, if only there were more drivers like Senna in the past and like Verstappen now. Both are among the greatest drivers of all time. This is something Verstappen continues to demonstrate on the circuits this season.
The Significance of Imola
Speaking of circuits, it brings me to Imola. As a driver, you race on many circuits throughout your career, but there are some you barely touch, or not at all. Imola was one such circuit for me. Or rather, it used to be. Finally, I had the opportunity to race there, as the circuit hosts a race in the World Endurance Championship. And when one mentions Imola, one inevitably thinks of Senna.
Imola is forever the place where his life tragically ended. But it has also become a place of remembrance. It’s no wonder people visit monuments or reminisce. As I was too young at the time, I don’t have memories of the day or moment of the accident. But Senna remains a hero to me.
Unexpected Heroes
There is also another person who is a hero to me, someone you might not necessarily expect: Juan Pablo Montoya. He was ‘of my time’ as a young boy. I was never really a big fan of Michael Schumacher, who wasn’t always fair on the track. Montoya was racing during that time, and I thought he was great. He was no Senna, but there is only one Senna.
And we will never forget him.
