Bruno Senna Plans to Let Kimi Antonelli Drive Ayrton Senna's F1 Car
The 2026 world champion explored the historic Lotus 98T during a visit to Brazil.
1Historic Estate Visit
Following his maiden Formula 1 championship victory at the Mexican Grand Prix, Kimi Antonelli visited the Senna family estate in Brazil. The 20-year-old driver, who became the youngest title holder in series history, spent time exploring the private grounds and the legacy of the legendary three-time world champion, Ayrton Senna.
2Lotus 98T Fascination
During his visit, Antonelli encountered the Lotus 98T, the iconic car raced by Ayrton Senna in 1986. Bruno Senna noted that the young champion was deeply captivated by the machine, spending significant time exploring the manual gearstick, turbo boost knob, and anti-roll bar settings while sitting inside the historic cockpit.
3Proposed Track Demonstration
Impressed by Antonelli's genuine enthusiasm and physical fit for the vintage vehicle, Bruno Senna expressed interest in organizing a future driving opportunity. He suggested that if McLaren or Lotus teams approve, they could coordinate a session next year, allowing the current Mercedes driver to pilot the classic car on track.
4Manual Transmission Challenge
The prospect of driving the 1986 car presents a unique challenge, as it requires mastering a traditional manual transmission rather than modern F1 systems. Despite his father's initial skepticism regarding his ability to handle the older machinery, Antonelli remained confident in his capability to operate the complex, non-automated racing gear.
5Karting Track Performance
Beyond the static display, Antonelli tested his skills on the private go-kart track designed by Ayrton Senna. Bruno Senna observed the young driver's performance firsthand, noting his remarkable speed and consistency. Despite the track surface being dirty and full of stones, Antonelli maintained a precise racing line throughout the session.
6Technical Precision Observed
Bruno Senna highlighted that the track conditions were extremely challenging, requiring drivers to stay within a narrow, clean groove to avoid spinning out on the grass. Antonelli displayed exceptional car control, proving his ability to adapt to difficult environments, which Bruno cited as clear evidence of his world-class racing talent.
7Generational Racing Connection
This interaction bridges the gap between the sport's history and its future, as Antonelli continues to establish himself as a dominant force in modern Formula 1. By engaging with the machinery of the past, the young champion demonstrates a profound respect for the heritage that shaped the current racing landscape.
8Future Career Implications
While Antonelli focuses on his professional duties with Mercedes, these extracurricular experiences provide valuable context for his development. As he matures as a driver, such opportunities to handle historic equipment may further refine his technical understanding and appreciation for the evolution of engineering within the high-stakes world of motorsport.