Ayrton Senna was not just a legendary Formula 1 driver; he was also a style icon. Thirty years after his death—commemorated by Netflix with a six-episode series retracing his career—the Argentine driver’s looks, though seemingly simple, remain rich in details that reflect his personality and era. Let’s rediscover his style through six key pieces that made him recognizable both on and off the track.

The Nacional cap

The blue cap with “NACIONAL” written prominently in the center is perhaps the most iconic item associated with Ayrton Senna. This accessory originated as part of a partnership between Senna and Banco Nacional, one of his main sponsors in the 1980s and 1990s. In addition to the embossed Banco Nacional logo, the cap always featured Ayrton’s signature embroidered in yellow on the side.
Senna regularly wore the cap during award ceremonies and public events, making it an integral part of his image. The cap became a symbol of connection between him and his fans, representing values of dedication and patriotism. To this day, it remains a cult object for supporters and collectors alike.

The racing jackets

Technical racing jackets were a necessity for Formula 1 drivers, but for Senna, they were much more. Throughout his career, he wore jackets from brands like Sparco, OMP, and Alpinestars, made even more recognizable by sponsors such as Marlboro, Honda, and Shell. The red McLaren jacket from the 1980s and the yellow Lotus jacket, with blue and green accents, remain etched in collective memory. Each jacket told a story: a team, a season, a championship. Racing jackets have influenced street fashion to this day, making their way into luxury collections and runway shows.

The ’80s shirts

Off the track, Senna favored a casual yet elegant look. Shirts were a staple in his wardrobe, often featuring clean cuts and neutral or pastel tones. Brands like Ralph Lauren and Lacoste were among his favorites, symbols of a refined yet relaxed style. Senna’s shirts often appeared in interviews and official events. Memorable images include him wearing striped blue or plain white shirts during photo shoots or interviews. The simplicity of his choices reflected his reserved character, a stark contrast to the ostentation typical of the 1980s.

The printed T-Shirts

Printed T-shirts were part of Senna’s informal wardrobe, especially in the 1990s. These shirts often featured sponsor logos, motivational phrases, or references to his career. Some T-shirts were personalized with his name or number, turning them into true collector’s items. Among the most famous are those with prints of Senninha, the cartoon character from a book series by Rogério Martins and Ridaut Dias Jr., inspired by the driver.

The Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for any driver, and Senna was no exception. Among his favorite brands were Ray-Ban and Persol. The latter recently launched the new “Senna Series” collection in collaboration with Netflix, celebrating the Brazilian driver. Images of Senna in dark sunglasses, walking toward the paddock or posing beside his car, have become part of his legend. His choices in eyewear undoubtedly influenced men’s fashion in the 1980s and 1990s, contributing to the enduring popularity of models still considered classics today.

The Watches

Like many drivers, Ayrton Senna was a great enthusiast of luxury watches, even becoming the face of TAG Heuer, one of the most iconic brands tied to the racing world. Among the standout models is the TAG Heuer 6000 Senna Edition, created in his honor, which combined elegance with functionality. Senna’s watches strengthened the bond between motorsport and high-end watchmaking, a connection that continues to inspire collaborations between luxury brands and the Formula 1 world.

Ayrton Senna embodied a unique style, characterized by details that transcended the fashion of the moment. Every element of his wardrobe told a story, shaping an aesthetic that influenced a generation. Even today, as we witness a resurgence of 1980s and 1990s aesthetics, his style continues to inspire, proving that simplicity and authenticity can leave an indelible mark.