Max Verstappen and Valtteri Bottas were the only two drivers who did not wear Ayrton Senna t-shirts during the tribute organized by Sebastian Vettel ahead of the 2024 Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola. For spectators, it was baffling to see Verstappen and Bottas seemingly “not honoring” the late great Brazilian racing legend. However, there was a valid reason behind Verstappen’s decision.
Mariana Becker explica o motivo de Max Verstappen não ter usado camisa em homenagem a Senna#F1naBandhttps://t.co/xyBTZDRuHY
— Band Esporte Clube (@BECband) May 18, 2024
Max Verstappen, unfortunately, couldn’t wear this special tribute outfit because his T-shirt was stolen. F1 reporter Marina Becker revealed this truth, providing some respite for the Dutchman. Verstappen faced scathing remarks online, with some even referencing Kelly Piquet’s father Nelson’s ill-fated relationship with Senna. Despite not being able to pay tribute through the t-shirt, Verstappen found another way to honor Senna.
Max Verstappen’s Special Tribute
During qualifying in Imola, Max Verstappen achieved a remarkable feat: he secured his eighth consecutive pole position. This achievement equaled a unique record held by Ayrton Senna himself. Between the 1988 and 1989 seasons, Senna had also secured eight pole positions in a row. No driver had matched this feat until Verstappen did so in Imola. His streak began at the season finale in Abu Dhabi the previous year, when he was already a three-time World Champion.
Verstappen acknowledged Senna’s incredible talent, especially in qualifying laps. Despite facing challenges with his RB20 car, Verstappen’s pole position ahead of Sunday’s race was a fitting homage to the legendary Brazilian driver.
Vettel joined at Imola for the tribute
Sebastian Vettel orchestrated a heartfelt tribute to honor Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger, both of whom tragically lost their lives at Imola 30 years ago. The tribute took place at the Tamburello chicane, where Senna fatally crashed, and then continued to turn 6, where Ratzenberger met his tragic end. Vettel designed special t-shirts for everyone to wear during this event. The t-shirt color was inspired by Senna’s iconic helmet – yellow and green – with Senna’s surname printed on both the front and back.
While Verstappen couldn’t wear the tribute t-shirt due to unforeseen circumstances, his performance on the track spoke volumes. Sometimes, actions can pay tribute more profoundly than any garment ever could.
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