Following the success of the Netflix series “Senna”, another major audiovisual production once again highlights the legendary Brazilian three-time World Champion. “F1 – The Movie” has arrived in theaters, prominently featuring Ayrton Senna through direct and indirect references.
The film tells the story of Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), portrayed as a young and talented driver racing in the 1990s, competing directly against Senna. These references to the Brazilian driver were crucial elements of the film, according to director Joseph Kosinski, known for films like “Top Gun – Maverick.”
In an interview with the official Ayrton Senna website in Montreal, Kosinski emphasized how influential Senna’s legacy was to the film, benefiting significantly from the continuous consultation of Lewis Hamilton, a devoted Senna fan.
“We absolutely wanted to showcase this iconic period in Formula 1, the 1990s, often regarded as its golden era, characterized by the nostalgic sound of the V12 engines and, naturally, Ayrton Senna, the ultimate icon of the sport. This was something consistently reinforced by every driver we consulted, especially Lewis (Hamilton). It was a great opportunity to include him and satisfy those who appreciate the sport’s rich history,” said Kosinski during an interview before the Canadian GP, where the film premiered to journalists and F1 paddock members.
Caution: Spoilers about film moments ahead.
The real accident inspiring fiction
Senna’s iconic McLaren and yellow helmet appear immediately in the film, with Sonny recalling a fierce battle with Senna at the 1993 Spanish GP. The fictional American driver attempts to overtake Senna but crashes spectacularly.
Eagle-eyed fans will recognize the footage used to illustrate the crash is actually from a dramatic real-life incident involving English driver Martin Donnelly during qualifying for the 1990 Spanish GP at Jerez. Donnelly’s crash split his Lotus in half, ejecting him onto the track. Senna famously rushed to Donnelly’s aid at the medical center. This event profoundly affected Senna, although he remained determined to continue racing.
The film portrays a similar scenario with Sonny being rescued. This subtly references Senna’s heroic action in real life when he saved French driver Erik Comas after a severe crash during practice at Spa-Francorchamps in 1992.
Senna’s McLaren: on-screen and historical reference
Despite chronological liberties — placing the fictional crash in 1993 rather than the actual 1990 — another creative decision involves Senna driving his 1990 McLaren with the iconic number 27. This car also appears prominently in the office of Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), Hayes’s former teammate and current APX GP partner, reinforcing their narrative as rising stars with Lotus during the early 1990s.
Notably, this car model matches the McLaren displayed at Senna Brands and Instituto Ayrton Senna in São Paulo, gifted to Senna by McLaren boss Ron Dennis after Senna’s 1990 Monza victory.
Ayrton: a constant presence
Senna’s influence permeates the film beyond explicit mentions. Brad Pitt’s character is fearless, technically skilled, and driven to surpass limits, echoing Senna’s renowned qualities.
Mechanics of the fictional APX GP nostalgically discuss the 1990s as a unique era, with scenes emphasizing the importance of teamwork and physical preparation akin to Senna’s routines. Sonny’s profound mechanical understanding parallels Senna’s own approach.
The film culminates in a moment of deep focus and connection between Sonny and his car, reminiscent of Senna’s famed 1988 Monaco GP moment, described as transcendent.
Connections to real-life F1
Although fictional, “F1 – The Movie” deeply immerses audiences in Formula 1’s reality, featuring cameos from current drivers like Max Verstappen and Hamilton and team principals Zak Brown (McLaren), Toto Wolff (Mercedes), and Fred Vasseur (Ferrari). Filmed during actual GP weekends at legendary circuits such as Spa and Silverstone, the racing scenes offer unparalleled authenticity.
“The movie will undoubtedly have significant impact, attracting new audiences to Formula 1,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali at the film’s premiere in Montreal, emphasizing growth potential in the U.S.
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer highlighted audience reactions before and after screenings, noting a shift in interest toward attending real GPs following the movie experience.
It remains to be seen how this Hollywood blockbuster will boost Formula 1’s popularity, but by framing Ayrton Senna as a foundational inspiration for Brad Pitt’s protagonist, “F1 – The Movie” respectfully honors motorsport history while appealing to new fans.
Article by Rodrigo França for Senna.com, Montreal, Canada.
