For the British driver, it was an experience he described as “the greatest honour” of his career.
The seven-time world champion, who has long seen Senna as his childhood hero and inspiration, described the laps he completed in the legendary Brazilian’s car at Interlagos as not just a tribute but the fulfillment of a dream.
The Interlagos crowd, renowned for its admiration for Senna, cheered Hamilton on from the moment he started the McLaren’s Honda engine.
With each lap, fans showed their appreciation, gathering as early as 4 a.m. despite the rain to witness both the qualifying and this unique tribute.
For Hamilton, the presence of the fans made the experience even more special. “It is very, very emotional,” he shared. “I was reliving my childhood, watching Ayrton race here, hearing that sound, and remembering how he won on this circuit. I still can’t believe I got to do this.”