Ayrton Senna – Race Suit, Imola 1985
Ayrton Senna’s original Lotus John Player Special race suit, worn during the 1985 Imola Grand Prix. An iconic piece of Formula 1 memorabilia, certified and documented.
This extraordinary Lotus John Player Special Stand 21 race suit, worn by Ayrton Senna during the 1985 Imola Grand Prix, stands as a unique and irreplaceable artifact in the world of motorsport memorabilia. The 1985 season marked a crucial moment in Senna’s career, culminating in his first-ever Formula 1 victory on April 21st in Estoril, Portugal, under extreme weather conditions that led to the retirement of no fewer than 16 drivers.
The black and gold colors of the Lotus John Player Special have become timeless symbols, forever associated with Senna’s unmatched technical prowess and relentless determination. The 1985 season was a defining chapter in his rise to greatness, with this suit offering a tangible link to that transformative moment when a legend began to take shape.
Authenticity and rarity
The suit comes with impeccable provenance and complete documentation, including certification from the Museo dell’Automobile, an official letter of appreciation, and an appraisal from Bonhams auction house. Race-used suits from this era are exceptionally rare—drivers typically used only a handful of suits per season, and it’s estimated that just two or three of this specific model survive worldwide.
In a market where counterfeits are increasingly common, a piece with such detailed, verified provenance is virtually impossible to find.
A legacy that transcends time
This suit is more than just a collectible—it is a tangible fragment of Ayrton Senna’s legacy. His first Formula 1 victory at Estoril under torrential rain showcased the masterful car control that would make him a legend. Owning this suit means connecting with the story of a driver who forever changed the world of Formula 1.
The memorabilia market for Ayrton Senna has reached extraordinary heights, with items such as an original race helmet selling for over $150,000 at auction. Interest in the Brazilian champion continues to grow, fueled by renewed media attention, including the upcoming Netflix series that has reignited global interest in the driver’s legacy.
This race suit is not just a piece of clothing; it is an eternal symbol of one of the greatest talents ever to grace a Formula 1 track. For collectors and enthusiasts, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a tangible, authentic piece of Ayrton Senna’s story.
Owning this suit means investing in history itself—an investment that goes beyond financial value, embodying passion, talent, and the spirit of one of motorsport’s most unforgettable legends. 🚀
