At the TABAC Classic GP Assen 2025, two iconic names from Formula 1 history come together, Lotus and Senna. Classic Team Lotus is bringing the famous Lotus 97T to the TT Circuit, the car in which Ayrton Senna won his very first Grand Prix in 1985. Adding to the excitement, none other than Bruno Senna, the nephew of the Brazilian legend, will be behind the wheel.
Ayrton Senna made motorsport history in 1985. In only his second race weekend for Lotus, he dominated in a rain-soaked Estoril and lapped the entire field – except for his later rival Alain Prost. It was the first of his 41 victories in Formula 1. Later that season, he secured another victory in the rain at Spa, firmly establishing his reputation as a master in wet conditions. Senna ended the year fourth in the world championship.
Bruno Senna
With the Lotus 97T ‘John Player Special’, Senna had a formidable car at his disposal. This black and gold beauty claimed eight pole positions and three victories that year. The classic division of Lotus keeps this history alive and is bringing the car to Drenthe for a unique demonstration by Bruno Senna. Ayrton’s nephew raced in Formula 1 for three seasons between 2010 and 2013 for HRT, Renault, and Williams. He later competed in the Formula E and the World Endurance Championship, where he became champion with Vaillante Rebellion in 2017. His helmet still bears the iconic yellow-green-blue of the Brazilian flag, in tribute to his uncle.
The TABAC Classic GP Assen is a three-day event, from September 5 to 7, at the ‘Cathedral of Speed’. In addition to historic Formula 1 cars, classic sports cars, touring cars, and GP motorcycles will also be in action.
