Prince Albert II took time during his visit to Brazil to honour one of motorsport’s most iconic figures, meeting with the family of Ayrton Senna at the legend’s institute. 

The visit to São Paulo brought together two worlds closely connected through racing history. The Prince was welcomed by Bianca Senna, who runs Senna Brands, alongside Bruno Senna, Ayrton’s nephew and former F1 driver himself, as well as Paula Lalli Senna and the Institute’s Vice-President, Ewerton Fulini. The meeting took place in the presence of one of Senna’s celebrated McLaren racing cars.

The connection between Senna and Monaco runs deep. The Brazilian driver’s mastery of Monaco’s difficult street circuit, a circuit which he had won six times, still remains legendary and his record continues to speak volumes of his talent on the narrow, unforgiving track.

Prince Albert marked the visit by signing a replica of Senna’s 1987 Monaco helmet. He also toured a specially prepared exhibition featuring personal items that told the story of Senna’s relationship with Monaco, where his racing has earned him a permanent place in Monaco’s history.

However, the visit was more than motorsport nostalgia. The Instituto Ayrton Senna represents the drivers impact off the track. It represents his commitment to education and social development that has touched countless young Brazilians over three decades.

Chaired by Viviane Senna-Lalli, Ayrton’s sister, the organisation holds official public-interest status and works across Brazil with government agencies, businesses, and community groups. It’s a living legacy that carries on Senna’s humanitarian values.

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Main photo credit: Michaël Alesi / Palais princier