Hamilton channels his hero Senna as he unveils Brazilian-flag helmet for São Paulo GP

The race itself was already memorable for Hamilton after coming back from a grid penalty to win from 10th position for Mercedes. After receiving the helmet, Hamilton took it on a parade lap around Interlagos as another show of respect.

This wasn’t an isolated moment either – Hamilton has made many references to Senna throughout his career, including wearing a specially designed helmet in Monaco last year featuring images and messages linked to Senna’s legacy.

The story comes full circle this weekend as Hamilton finally takes part in the Brazilian Grand Prix as a Ferrari driver – something that was once only possible in Senna’s dreams.

Lewis Hamilton channels Ayrton Senna with new helmet tribute for Ferrari debut at Brazil GP

The seven-time world champion has long had a special bond with Brazil and Senna, even gaining citizenship in 2021. Last year, he drove Senna’s 1990 McLaren ahead of the race, a moment that resonated deeply with fans.

“It’s a strange feeling because I remember growing up watching Ayrton and, like everyone else, always wondered what it would be like if he was in a Ferrari,” Hamilton told GQ Brazil. “And now, for the first time, you’re going to see a helmet with the Brazilian flag rolling around São Paulo in a Ferrari.”

This weekend at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Hamilton will wear a helmet inspired by the Brazilian flag. According to him, it will be the first time such a design appears on a Ferrari driver’s helmet. He hopes to make Brazilian fans proud and honour Senna’s legacy.

“And now, for the first time, you’re going to see a helmet with the Brazilian flag rolling around São Paulo in a Ferrari. I hope to make people here proud,” added Hamilton.

Senna was an inspiration not just because of his success on track but also his sense of purpose off it. That influence is something Hamilton has felt throughout his own career.

Lewis Hamilton looks back on Brazilian Grand Prix moments ahead of Ferrari debut

Hamilton has won three times in Brazil, with his victories coming in 2016, 2018, and 2021. The circuit also holds special memories for him – it was where he won his first F1 title in 2008 after a dramatic final lap saw him overtake Timo Glock to beat Felipe Massa by a single point.

Reflecting on the race, Hamilton said: “My first time here was already a great thrill. It was when I felt closest to Ayrton. I always saw him in movies and on TV as a child. So finally being in his country was something special.”

He spoke about the experience, saying: “Last year was crazy for me because I used to watch tapes of him doing laps on the circuit. It’s a shame the track was wet, it would have been cooler if it had been dry. But it’s always like this here: scorching hot or very wet.

“I hope that, with all the difficult moments we’ve had this year, all of this has prepared us for this weekend.” Hamilton is yet to score a podium for Ferrari in 2025 – he will be desperate to end the streak this weekend.