Speed, precision, and control — the essence of Ayrton Senna lives on through the “Senna Speed”, a radio-controlled aerobatic aircraft once owned by the Brazilian Formula 1 legend. This rare collector’s piece, signed by Senna himself, is currently up for auction on Catawiki. Preserved with extreme care for over thirty years, the model now seeks a new owner who will cherish its extraordinary history.
As Formula 1 returns to Interlagos for the Brazilian Grand Prix, fans are being transported into a different side of Ayrton Senna’s life. The “Senna Speed”, his personal radio-controlled aerobatic plane, is up for auction, complete with Senna’s original autograph. Estimated to be worth between €25,000 and €75,000, this collector’s treasure comes with the original remote control and will remain available for bidding until November 14.
A little-known passion of Ayrton Senna
Few people know that Ayrton Senna had a deep passion for aeromodelling — a hobby he shared with his close friend Hanno Prettner, a seven-time world champion in model aircraft aerobatics. It was Prettner who personally designed and hand-built the “Senna Speed”, crafted exclusively for Senna and flown only by him. Following Senna’s tragic passing, the plane remained for decades in Prettner’s private collection in Austria and has never been offered for sale — until now.
A priceless signed model
“Ayrton Senna’s authentic signature is an absolute rarity,” explained Marc Jans, Catawiki’s expert in sports memorabilia. “This is a model built specifically for him, by a world champion, and flown solely by Senna himself — a truly unique combination in the collectors’ market.”
Prettner once recalled his friendship with Senna with deep affection: “Ayrton was passionate about aerobatic flying. He always said that the responsiveness of these aircraft reminded him of the precision of Formula 1.” Built in 1989, the “Senna Speed” bears Senna’s original signature on its left wing and remains fully flight-capable. Powered by a Rossi 61 engine with 3.5 horsepower, the aircraft is capable of exceeding 300 km/h.
A symbol of Senna’s spirit and perfection
More than just a piece of memorabilia, the “Senna Speed” stands as a testament to Ayrton Senna’s relentless pursuit of perfection, curiosity, and boundless passion. It reflects the same traits that made him a legend not only on the racetrack but also beyond it — a man driven by precision, artistry, and the desire to push limits, whether on asphalt or in the sky.
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