Antonelli to race in Senna-inspired helmet after emotional family visit

Kimi Antonelli was invited to sit in the cockpit of a #12 Lotus raced by Ayrton Senna during a visit to Senna’s family in Brazil. The new Formula 1 champion described the experience as deeply emotional; he will race at the São Paulo Grand Prix this weekend in a helmet inspired by his idol.

The visit came days after Antonelli clinched the title at the Mexico City Grand Prix. At 20, he became Formula 1’s youngest champion, beating Sebastian Vettel’s record by more than three years.

Antonelli had also visited Senna’s resting place in 2025. This time, he said, the family showed him places where Senna spent much of his time, including his room. Antonelli said he was especially moved by the experience and tried to stay as long as he could because he did not want to leave. Senna and Antonelli both race under #12.

The helmet brings together the colours of Senna’s own design, a Brazilian flag and the three-time champion’s logo. The São Paulo Grand Prix will be Antonelli’s first F1 race as champion.