Silverstone Festival’s Senna Tribute Is The Best Motoring Spectacle of the Year

The Silverstone Festival has secured a prestigious accolade, being crowned the ‘2024 Motoring Spectacle of the Year’ at the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards. The award recognises the Festival’s extraordinary Senna 30-Year Legacy tribute, a breathtaking display honouring the life and career of Ayrton Senna.

Let’s take a closer look at how this tribute captivated motorsport enthusiasts and earned its place in motoring history.

A Historic Tribute to Ayrton Senna

The Senna 30-Year Legacy display was a once-in-a-lifetime gathering of vehicles that spanned every chapter of Ayrton Senna’s illustrious career. Held at Silverstone, the circuit where Senna achieved more victories than at any other venue, the collection was both massive in scale and profound in significance.

Key Highlights of the Display

• Vehicles from Every Stage of Senna’s Career:
  The exhibit featured karts from Senna’s early days, junior single-seaters, and a remarkable lineup of 11 Formula 1 cars. These included iconic machines from his time with Toleman, Lotus, McLaren, and Williams.
• Rare Rally Cars and Off-Track Legends:
  Two rally cars driven by Senna in the Welsh forests stood out, alongside Honda NSXs he drove off the racetrack. The collection also included McLaren and Ducati street machines dedicated to the Brazilian legend.
• Exclusive Exhibition at the Silverstone Museum:
  Visitors enjoyed a unique display of trophies and memorabilia, many shown publicly for the first time. This personal insight into Senna’s career added emotional depth to the tribute.

A Family-Backed Celebration

The tribute was organised with the full support of the Senna family. Ayrton’s nephew, Bruno, and niece, Lalalli, attended the event, underscoring its significance and heartfelt connection to Senna’s legacy.

Recognition at the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards

The award ceremony took place at the Royal Automobile Club in London. Hosted by Channel 4’s F1 presenter Lee McKenzie, the event celebrated the dedication of the Silverstone Festival team. Key members of the team accepted the award, including:

• Giles Brown, Commercial Director, Goose Live Events
• Mark Constanduros, Content Curator
• Elliot Spencer, Customer Services Team Leader
• Amy Beattie, Volunteers Manager

Nick Wigley, Event Director, shared his gratitude:

“We are proud to have celebrated Ayrton Senna with such an incredible display at this summer’s Silverstone Festival. This award highlights how brightly Ayrton’s legacy continues to shine in motorsport history.”

What’s Next for the Silverstone Festival?

The Silverstone Festival has already set its sights on an even bigger celebration next year. The 2025 edition, scheduled for 22–24 August, will honour 75 years of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, a milestone that began at Silverstone in 1950.

Exciting Features for 2025

• Historic Race Action:
  Expect thrilling races from motorsport’s golden eras, including the return of crowd favourites like Group C sportscars.
• Family-Friendly Attractions:
  The festival will once again include live music, stunt shows, funfair rides, and entertainment for all ages. Children aged 15 and under can attend for free with an adult.
• Exclusive Deals for Car Club Members:
  Car club members can take advantage of a 2-for-1 ticket offer, with the chance to display their cherished classics.

Ticket Information

Super Early Bird tickets are available until the end of the year:

• Day tickets from £50
• Three-day weekend passes from £145
• Camping options available

For more details, visit the Silverstone Festival website.

A Legacy Worth Celebrating

As the Silverstone Festival continues to evolve, its commitment to honouring motorsport legends like Ayrton Senna sets it apart. From record-breaking tributes to unforgettable entertainment, it’s clear why this Bank Holiday weekend remains a highlight of the motoring calendar.

What Do You Think?

Did you attend this year’s Silverstone Festival? What’s your favourite memory of Ayrton Senna? Share your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you.