How Ayrton Senna Inspired Lewis Hamilton to Carry His Brazilian Racing Legacy Forward

There’s a common saying in the world of sports, that every great athlete was one inspired by another great athlete. The same can be said in the case of Mercedes legend, Lewis Hamilton, who got inspired by the McLaren icon, Ayrton Senna. In Hamilton’s long and legendary career, Senna’s inspiration has been quite noticeable, as the F1 calendar approaches the Brazilian Grand Prix 2023. But how did Senna inspire Hamilton to carry forward his Brazilian racing legacy?

With the Brazilian Grand Prix approaching, Hamilton is ready to hit two birds with one stone. Overtaking Sergio Perez in the drivers’ championship and helping Mercedes defend their lead against Ferrari in the constructors’ championship is his prime target. Hamilton heads into his favorite nation as he looks to carry forward Ayrton Senna‘s Brazilian racing legacy.

Lewis Hamilton and Ayrton Senna: The true heroes of Brazil

Often regarded as a driver with an inspirational driving style, the true king of the Monaco Grand Prix, Senna, was also a unique personality on the F1 paddock. Apart from being a fearless driver, he was a kind and humble soul. This was seen at the 1992 qualifying session of the Belgium Grand Prix. Where a terrible crash had Erik Comas knocked out unconscious. The ever so fearless Senna jumped out of his car upon spotting a motionless Comas and helped him. However, little did he know that in doing so, he would be inspiring a future legend.

Lewis Hamilton has never been shy from throwing praises towards his idol. From dedicating his honorary Brazilian citizenship to him to wearing racing helmets and clothes that pay homage to him and Brazil. You name it, and Hamilton has done it all. But this all started way back in his childhood when the Mercedes driver was roughly 5 years old.

Whilst getting his Brazilian citizenship, Hamilton stated, according to PlanetF1, “For me, when I was five years old, I saw Ayrton race for the first time, and that was the moment I knew I wanted to be a World Champion, just like him. It was then that I knew and learned about Brazil. It was then that I started to play FIFA as Brazil!”

He further added, “But really, through his eyes, I was able to see how passionate Brazilians were and how deep it goes, the love and passion you have for your country, and how beautiful it is. I’m so excited to spend some more time here.” Despite his age, a young Hamilton was still able to see the passion, love, and determination of Brazilians and their racing culture, through the eyes of Ayrton Senna.

READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton Explains Why He Idolizes F1 Legend Ayrton Senna

Thanks to Senna’s greatness, the world of F1 to this day continues to witness the enduring legacy of his and Brazil’s racing prowess, even to this day! No wonder Hamilton looks completely dominant whenever he is at the Interlagos. Moreover, with him also winning his first world championship at this circuit, perhaps this was all meant to be!

Can Hamilton take the Brazilian racing legacy a step further, at the 2023 Grand Prix?

Hamilton has not enjoyed the Max Verstappen dominance. Ever since his infamous defeat at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he hasn’t managed to grab his 104th victory in F1. However, with the glimpses of his vintage bravery visible in the past few races, it’s about time that he ends his win drought. And there simply can’t be a better race than the Brazilian Grand Prix.

According to the Guardian, Hamilton has recently stated, “I anticipate Red Bull will blitz it because their car is great. But if that is not the case, I will be ready to take the fight to them, and if it can be anything like Austin and we can get our strategy better, then that would be incredible. I came away empty-handed last season. I don’t plan on that this year.”

With the fight inside him, along with Ayrton Senna’s legacy, Hamilton is looking razer sharp in the pursuit of his long-awaited victory and carrying forward the Brazilian racing legacy.

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Ayrton Senna’s humanity and humbleness, coupled with his relentless determination and elegant driving, have truly inspired Lewis Hamilton to carry forward the Brazilian legacy. But can take it a step further and showcase the Brazilian racing legacy at this season’s GP?