Senna on Netflix true story: What happened to Ayrton Senna?

Senna on Netflix true story: What happened to Ayrton Senna?

As I delve into the captivating world of Ayrton Senna through the new Netflix drama “Senna,” I find myself utterly mesmerized by this extraordinary individual. Born to affluent parents in São Paulo, Senna’s life was far from ordinary. His journey, as depicted in this six-episode series, is a testament to his indomitable spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence.


The new Netflix series titled “Senna” features Gabriel Leone portraying Ayrton Senna, the legendary Brazilian race car driver, who has been the focus of a highly-regarded documentary from 2010.

Six installments narrate the account of his life, tracing his progress from the Formula Ford and Formula 1 race tracks, culminating in his demise in 1994.

In addition to Kaya Scodelario and Steven Mackintosh, this series features some notable stars. For anyone curious about the life of Ayrton Senna, let me provide a brief introduction: Who was he, and what became of him?

Read on for everything you need to know about the true story behind Senna on Netflix.

Senna true story: Who was Ayrton Senna?

Ayrton Senna, known as da Silva initially, hailed from Brazil and was born into affluence in the year 1960, in São Paulo, to his father Milton da Silva and mother Neide. He went on to become a renowned racing driver.

From his tender years, he demonstrated a knack for sports and athletics, and developed a fascination with automobiles at the age of four. This passion led him to participate in and emerge victorious in Go-Kart races. At the age of 19, he shifted base to England to embark on single-seater racing.

Senna on Netflix true story: What happened to Ayrton Senna?

That year, Senna emerged victorious in the Formula Ford championships, but later announced his retirement and departed for Brazil with his wife. However, he didn’t stay away for long; he soon returned to England to accept another offer from a Formula Ford team. Additionally, he chose to use his mother’s maiden name, Senna, rather than da Silva, which is a common surname in Brazil.

Throughout his career spanning eleven seasons, he initially teamed up with the Toleman Formula One team. Subsequently, he competed for Lotus, McLaren, and Williams. During this period, he amassed three Formula One World Drivers’ Championship titles. Moreover, he clinched victories in 41 Grand Prix races.

At the time of his death, he held the record for most pole positions, at 65.

What happened to Ayrton Senna?

During the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix held in Italy, Senna veered off course while navigating a high-speed bend, instead continuing straight and colliding with a concrete barrier.

In just two minutes after the collision, he was safely removed from his vehicle. Medical attention was provided immediately at the site, followed by an aerial transport to the hospital. Regrettably, it was later confirmed that he succumbed to his injuries during the day.

In reaction to the tragic loss, the Brazilian government announced a period of three days for national mourning. This event, being the death of Senna, was deemed a significant national sorrow, and he received a formal state funeral.

Senna on Netflix true story: What happened to Ayrton Senna?

The Williams team members were scrutinized regarding their possible involvement in Senna’s demise; they initially faced manslaughter charges. However, at the end of the trial, all defendants were found not guilty – a verdict that stood firm when it was reviewed by an appeals court two years later.

In 2007, Italy’s highest court determined that Ayrton Senna’s death was due to a faulty steering column, for which Patrick Head, a former Engineering Director at the Williams team, was held accountable. Despite this finding, he was not arrested because the legal timeframe for such action had expired.

“There is no doubt it was cracked. Equally, all the data, all the circuit cameras, the on-board camera from Michael Schumacher’s car that was following, none of that appears to be consistent with a steering column failure.”

What has Gabriel Leone said about playing Ayrton Senna?

In preparing to play the role, Leone said he “did the most I could” when it came to research.

He shared that he tried to absorb as much information as possible about Senna, from reading numerous texts to watching countless videos. However, he was surprised by the vast amount of material available – photographs, videos, and more. At a certain point, he became slightly overwhelmed because he wanted to consume everything, but realized it would be impossible, even if he had a full year to prepare for this task.

Senna on Netflix true story: What happened to Ayrton Senna?

Part of his research included watching the Asif Kapadia documentary, also called Senna.

He said of that film: “I love the documentary. I find it so emotional and so well done, and all the real footage they restored. For us, for the whole production, it was a huge reference.”

In addition, Leone mentioned that he had conversations not only with Senna himself but also with his family members, specifically his sister and nephew, who oversee his Institute.

He shared that they were incredibly helpful,” he clarified, “and very considerate towards me. One thing that particularly stood out to me during our talks was…

I recall people discussing Senna’s eyes, character, and demeanor, mentioning his occasional aggression and passion. Yet, they also shared with me another aspect of him – the human side, revealing a more compassionate and relatable individual.

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2024-11-27 17:37