Who knew? Honestly, who really knew that Ayrton Senna would mean so much to so many people? Who honestly knew, back when this photo was taken in 1985, that this young man would go down as arguably the greatest racing driver of all time?

I have read contemporary reports, articles and interviews, and they all seem to indicate that anyone who was in contact with the Brazilian knew he was special. The raw talent and high levels of commitment were visible to all, but to become more revered than Fangio or Clark, who honestly knew?

1993 Japanese Grand Prix.

That one time Eddie Irvine unlapped himself by passing Ayrton Senna who then proceeded to charge down to Irvine’s pits and punch him in the face after the race had finished. Good times.

Monaco 1985, Ayrton Senna for Lotus-Renault.

On the run up at Eau Rouge.

Senna in the wet.

Monaco, 1992.

The last time.

itsawheelthing:

monuments …

Ayrton Senna

Parabolica

1989 Marlboro McLaren-Honda MP4/5 & 1992 Marlboro McLaren-Honda MP4/7

Phwoar.

Ayrton Senna by Dale Kistemaker

Ayrton Senna, McLaren, 1990.