McLaren set to run new livery at Monaco GP to pay tribute to Ayrton Senna

At the recently concluded Imola Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel paid tribute to legendary F1 driver Ayrton Senna. Almost 30 years after his tragic demise on the track his former team McLaren has now decided to remember him at the upcoming Monaco GP. 

McLaren is set to feature a striking, one-time livery inspired by Ayrton Senna's famous yellow, green, and blue helmet at the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix. This special design aims to honour the Brazilian driver's remarkable legacy in racing.

Senna, a three-time world champion, is celebrated as McLaren's most accomplished driver. He competed for the team from 1988 to 1993, achieving 35 of his 41 career Grand Prix victories and securing three drivers' titles along with four constructors' championships for McLaren.

Why did McLaren choose Monaco for tribute?

McLaren selected Monaco to honour Ayrton Senna, as the Monte Carlo track is closely associated with the legendary Brazilian driver. Senna won there six times, including five consecutive victories starting in 1989. This tribute follows a commemorative weekend at Imola, marking 30 years since the tragic accidents of Senna and Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger. 

In Monaco, the McLaren team will also don Senna-inspired gear, with drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri wearing custom overalls. This special livery results from a collaboration between Senna Global and McLaren's partner, OKX.

Notably, last weekend Sebastian Vettel drove Senna’s 1993 edition McLaren and did doughnuts to give him a much-deserved tribute. Senna was one of those F1 drivers who could have won more than five titles if he had continued. His tragic demise led to major changes in regulation and car design to keep everything safe and sound. 

The Monaco weekend will kick off with two practice sessions on Friday, May 24th. It will be followed by the crucial qualifying rounds and a final practice session on Saturday, May 25th. The main event, a demanding 78-lap race, will be held on Sunday, May 26th, starting at 14:00 GMT.