The McLaren Formula 1 Team has revealed a unique, one-off livery inspired by the legendary Ayrton Senna for the 2024 Monaco Grand Prix. This special design celebrates Senna’s extraordinary career and lasting influence on motorsport, marking thirty years since his passing.
The vibrant yellow, green, and blue color scheme draws direct inspiration from Senna’s iconic helmet design. It will adorn the MCL38 car throughout the race weekend in Monaco, paying homage to one of Formula 1’s most beloved and successful drivers.
A Tribute to a Racing Legend
Ayrton Senna remains McLaren’s most successful driver. During his time with the team from 1988 to 1993, he secured 35 of his 41 career Grand Prix victories. He also won three Drivers' Championships and contributed to four Constructors' Championships, cementing his status as a motorsport icon.
Senna’s relationship with the Monaco Grand Prix is the stuff of legend. His six victories around the challenging street circuit—including five consecutive wins from 1989 to 1993—earned him the nickname “King of Monaco.” This deep connection makes Monaco the perfect venue for this tribute.
More Than a Paint Job: The Design and Collaboration
The livery is the centerpiece of a broader campaign developed in collaboration with the Senna Brand. The design goes beyond aesthetics; it is a visual narrative of Senna’s legacy, intentionally evoking the colors and spirit that made him a global icon.
The partnership extends the celebration beyond the track, offering fans a way to engage with this historic moment. A special range of merchandise, inspired by the livery and Senna’s era, will be available for purchase.
McLaren Automotive Joins the Tribute
In a parallel tribute, McLaren Automotive unveiled a one-off version of its McLaren Senna hypercar. Named "Senna Sempre," this bespoke model features a hand-painted livery that mirrors the Formula 1 car’s design.
Created by McLaren Special Operations, the car’s intricate design incorporates the same yellow, green, and blue colors. It also features skillfully applied dot matrix portraits of Ayrton Senna, making it a rolling piece of art and a profound tribute to his life and achievements.
Driver Involvement and Fan Engagement
McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will also participate in the tribute, wearing specially designed Senna-inspired race overalls throughout the Monaco weekend.
This initiative is a key part of enhancing the global fan experience, providing exciting opportunities for supporters to feel closer to the team’s history and current endeavors. For those looking to delve deeper into the strategy behind such tributes, you can explore more strategies.
Leadership Perspectives on the Tribute
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing
“The team is proud to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary life and racing legacy of Ayrton Senna. Senna remains revered as Formula 1’s greatest icon and McLaren’s most decorated driver. His impact on McLaren is enormous, not only through his racing record but also his lasting presence within the team. It’s an honour to race for him at his most successful circuit in his iconic colours.”
Haider Rafique, CMO of OKX
“Our collaboration on the Senna livery is more than just a tribute; it's a celebration of Ayrton Senna's unmatched legacy. Senna inspired a generation, and we aim to be the bridge between his legacy and younger fans. This initiative is a living homage that ensures Senna’s spirit continues to influence Formula 1 and beyond.”
Bianca Senna, Senna Brand
“It’s an honour to recognise Ayrton through these liveries. It's a fantastic way to celebrate his life and legacy through his iconic colours on both cars. McLaren meant a lot to him, and together they achieved great success. It will be special to see it race in Monaco, a circuit that gave him so much joy.”
The Significance of the Monaco Grand Prix
The 2024 Monaco Grand Prix, held from May 24th to 26th at the Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo, provides a fitting backdrop for this celebration. The event is known for its glamour, history, and immense challenge, characteristics that defined Senna’s approach to racing.
This tribute ensures that a new generation of fans can appreciate the brilliance of Ayrton Senna while honoring the memories of long-time followers of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is McLaren using a special livery at the Monaco Grand Prix?
McLaren is running a one-off livery to honor the 30th anniversary of Ayrton Senna's passing and to celebrate his incredible legacy with the team. The Monaco circuit is chosen for its deep historical connection to Senna, where he earned six victories.
What do the colors on the special livery represent?
The vibrant yellow, green, and blue color scheme is a direct tribute to Ayrton Senna’s iconic helmet design. These colors became synonymous with his identity on the track and are instantly recognizable to Formula 1 fans around the world.
Can fans purchase merchandise related to this tribute?
Yes, McLaren has launched a special Senna x Monaco merchandise line. The collection features designs inspired by the tribute livery and Senna’s racing era, allowing fans to own a piece of this commemorative celebration.
Is the McLaren Automotive tribute car for sale?
The "Senna Sempre" is a one-of-a-kind, bespoke model created by McLaren Special Operations. Such unique tribute cars are typically not produced for public sale and are intended as singular homages to the brand's heritage.
How is OKX involved in this campaign?
As a primary partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team, OKX is the presenting partner for the "McLaren SENNA" campaign. The company supports initiatives that enhance fan engagement and connect the sport’s history with its future audience. To see how technology is shaping fan experiences, view real-time tools.
Will the drivers be involved in the tribute?
Yes, both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri will wear custom Senna-inspired race overalls throughout the Monaco Grand Prix weekend, further connecting the current team to its legendary past.