Sebastian Vettel claims he tried to finish Late Ayrton Senna’s tribute to Roland Ratzenberger on 30th anniversary

Sebastian Vettel did not forget Ayrton Senna's plan to honor Roland Ratzenberger's death by waving around the Austrian flag.

Sebastian Vettel claims he tried to finish Late Ayrton Senna’s tribute to Roland Ratzenberger on 30th anniversary

Sebastian Vettel (L), Ayrton Senna (R), Roland Ratzenberger (C)

The entire Formula 1 paddock was paying tribute to Ayrton Senna‘s 30th Death Anniversary at the recently concluded Emilia Romagna GP. People even donned special equipment to honor Roland Ratzenberger‘s death anniversary as well. Hence, Sebastian Vettel, who drove around the circuit in Senna’s chassis, had a bittersweet moment at the circuit after spotting the support from the fans.

Sebastian Vettel took a drive of Ayrton Senna‘s iconic MP4/8 around the Imola circuit. The German driver was spotted donning a special Senna jersey and Brazilian and Austrian flags to honor the death of both drivers. Vettel reckoned that it was clear to wave Brazil’s flag because it was the late driver’s habit. However, Senna had also prepared to wave the Austrian flag back then to honor Roland Ratzeberger‘s death.

Obviously, the Brazilian flag was clear, because it was something that he used to do after the races, But I know the same story [about the Austrian flag Senna had prepared]. I was thinking about it, whether it's the right thing to try and finish the job.
Sebastian Vettel said, as reported by motorsport.com.
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Vettel realized that this ritual remained unfinished due to Senna’s tragic accident. Hence, he took it into his own hands to make people remember the entire situation. The 36-year-old recalled that it felt ‘very special’ when he got both the nation’s flag out after driving the McLaren MP4/8. As a result, the whole three-day weekend was ‘very meaningful’ for him.

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I don't think it will ever be finished, it's not about finishing, but trying to just make people remember. It felt very special when I got the flag out and very special when I got both of them out. It was a very special and very meaningful weekend for me.
Sebastian Vettel added.

Sebastian Vettel claimed he felt the ‘strongest emotions’ behind the wheel of the MP4/8

Driving Senna’s chassis was one of the greatest honors that Vettel received in his life. Hence, taking in the great love and support from the Tifosi present at the Italian circuit made the event more special. The German driver labeled the feeling as ‘incredible’ and claimed it was one of the ‘strongest emotions’ he ever felt racing in F1.

Yeah, definitely. It's difficult to put in words, I think it was one of the strongest emotions I felt behind the wheel despite being alone on track and not even racing.
Sebastian Vettel noted.
Max Verstappen alongside Sebastian Vettel, Stefano Domenicali, Nico Hulkenberg and Carlos Sainz for Senna Tribute
Max Verstappen alongside Sebastian Vettel, Stefano Domenicali, Nico Hulkenberg and Carlos Sainz for Senna Tribute (via IMAGO)

Apart from this, when the 36-year-old got both the flags out, he felt ‘powerful’ seeing the people’s reaction. Vettel had even invited Senna’s family to the event as it was a very special one. Hence, the four-time world champion reckoned that he was glad to have the courage to conduct such an emotional and empowering event.

Incredible. When I got the flags out, the people.... it was so powerful. I'm happy that I had the courage to address my idea and invite the Senna family. And I only got positive feedback.
Sebastian Vettel concluded.

The 2024 Emilia Romagna GP was a special event for many reasons. It is great to see that Formula 1 drivers are keen to carry forward the legacy of such legendary drivers. Sebastian Vettel continues to do great work for the community of F1 despite leaving the sport. The German driver will continue to host such events in the future as well.

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