Ayrton Senna never hid his passion for motorcycles. Away from the racetrack, motorcycles represented a more personal relationship with speed for the three-time world champion. This connection helped create one of Ducati’s most iconic special series: a line of models that turned the Senna name into a symbol of exclusivity and performance in the world of two wheels. To mark more than three decades of this partnership, Ducati and the Senna brand hosted an unprecedented activation. For the first time, the three motorcycles bearing the three-time champion’s name were brought together at the “Senna S” corner in Interlagos.
“This year, we are celebrating the 35th anniversary of Senna’s first victory in Brazil. Having the opportunity to bring the three Ducatis together on the Interlagos track is truly special. We are always looking for initiatives that show how Ayrton’s legacy continues to cross generations and different worlds within the culture of speed, carrying the message that, no matter who you are, it is always possible to surpass yourself and achieve new goals,” says Bianca Senna, CEO of Senna Brands and the driver’s niece.
The tribute brought together the Ducati 916 Senna. The driver played an active role in the creation of this model, launched in 1994 as a limited series of 301 units, featuring carbon fiber components and a sober color palette with orange wheels. Beneath the fairing, the 916 cc engine delivers 114 hp, allowing the machine to reach 263 km/h. The motorcycle quickly became an icon among collectors and paved the way for new tributes over the decades.
In 2014, the Ducati Panigale 1199 S Senna arrived on the market with only 161 units, a number referencing the total Formula 1 Grands Prix contested by the Brazilian driver. Its two-cylinder Superquadro engine produces an impressive 195 hp which, combined with its 166.5 kg weight, enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in three seconds, with a top speed reaching 298 km/h.
Ten years later, the Ducati Monster 937 Senna was launched, featuring colors inspired by the driver’s helmet. As part of the global celebrations marking 30 years of Ayrton Senna’s legacy, the motorcycle was unveiled during the Imola Grand Prix, with a limited run of 341 units, referencing Senna’s three world titles and 41 Formula 1 victories. Equipped with a 911 cc Testastretta engine producing 111 hp, the collaboration sold out in 72 hours.
Daniel Paixão, CEO of Ducati in Brazil, rode the Monster Senna 001 at Interlagos and highlighted the longevity of the partnership between two highly aligned brands: “Ayrton was a fan of speed and performance. Ducati continues to translate that spirit into machines that honor this partnership. Bringing these motorcycles together at Interlagos means reliving history, and it is a moment Ducati is proud to take part in and support.”