Ayrton Senna

Ayrton Senna da Silva (March 21, 1960–May 1, 1994), better known as Ayrton Senna, was a Brazilian racing driver who won the Formula One world championship three times. He is regarded by many as the greatest driver ever. His life, character and the circumstances of his death have caused his story to approach what could arguably be termed a modern legend. His death in 1994 is still mourned by Brazilians and he remains one of the most beloved Formula One personalities.

Wet weather driving

In F1 wet weather racing is considered to be a great equaliser. Speeds must be reduced and car superiority in power or grip is eliminated. The rain demands great driver car control, ability and driving finesse.

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The 1984 season was Senna's first in F1. He came into a field of competitors from whose ranks 16 world championships would be reaped. Participating as an unknown rookie in a low level, non competitive car, the Toleman TG184, Senna had racked up three 16th places and a 13th place.

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He started the first wet race of the season, the Monaco Grand Prix (a notoriously difficult circuit for racing, as it is run on regular streets) in 13th place. The race was terminated after 31 laps due to monsoon conditions deemed undriveable. At the time the race was stopped, Senna was classified in 2nd place, and catching up to race leader Alain Prost, at 4 seconds per lap.

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In 1993, at the European GP at Donington Park, Senna drove for the McLaren team. The MP4/8 although one of the front running cars was considered inferior to the leading Williams FW-15C of Prost and the factory Ford engine supplied Benetton B193 of Michael Schumacher and Riccardo Patrese. Some maintain that the Williams FW-14B and FW-15C were probably "the most technologically advanced cars that will ever race in Formula One".http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/cars_guide/4272031.stm

Related Topics:
1993 - European GP

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The start of the wet weather 1993 European Grand Prix, by way of its uniqueness is frequently referred to in racing lore as the best ever lap. Starting from fifth on the grid, Senna was first before the end of the first lap. Examples of wet weather car control such as this gained Senna the title "The Rain man" in numerous F1 publications in the early 90's.

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