Max Verstappen has offered his perspective on the enduring support for Ayrton Senna in Brazil, alongside fellow Formula 1 legends Nelson Piquet and Emerson Fittipaldi. Speaking during the FIA press conference ahead of the São Paulo Grand Prix, Verstappen addressed a question from a Brazilian journalist regarding the differing levels of public adoration for the three champions.
Verstappen noted that all three drivers possessed distinct personalities and achieved significant success in the sport. He specifically highlighted Senna’s connection to São Paulo, stating that it is logical for him to receive greater backing in the region.
Senna, a three-time World Champion in 1988, 1990, and 1991, remains a national hero in Brazil. His tragic death in 1994 was a national tragedy, cementing his legacy as a symbol of hope and resilience during a period of political and economic instability. Senna notably embraced the Brazilian flag at a time when national pride was low, and he also contributed to education charities.
Emerson Fittipaldi, Brazil’s first Formula 1 World Champion, secured two titles in 1972 with Lotus and in 1974 with McLaren. Fittipaldi, who also hails from São Paulo, achieved 14 Grand Prix victories across his 11-season F1 career. His racing success extended to American open-wheel racing, where he won the IndyCar World Series in 1989 and the Indianapolis 500 twice, in 1989 and 1993.
Nelson Piquet, Verstappen’s girlfriend Kelly Piquet’s father, claimed three Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championships in 1981, 1983, and 1987. Piquet, originally from Rio de Janeiro, accumulated 23 Grand Prix wins over 14 seasons in the sport.
Verstappen acknowledged that Senna likely fostered a stronger connection with the public. However, he maintained that his personal focus remains solely on winning races. Verstappen stated that building public rapport is a secondary consideration to his primary objective of achieving victories.
The discussion of Brazilian legends coincides with the emergence of a new generation of talent from the country. Gabriel Bortoleto, who drives for Audi in the 2026 Formula 1 season, has achieved consecutive FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles. He won the F3 Championship in 2023 and the F2 Championship in 2024, making him the fourth driver in the FIA F2 era to accomplish this feat. Bortoleto made his Formula 1 debut with Sauber in 2025 and has competed in 43 Grands Prix, securing 33 career points.
Rafael Câmara is set to make his Formula 1 debut at the São Paulo Grand Prix this weekend, driving for Haas as a replacement for Esteban Ocon. Câmara, a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, is currently leading the 2026 FIA Formula 2 Championship standings. His junior career includes winning the Formula Regional European Championship in 2024 and the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2025. He is contracted for a full-time Haas seat in 2027.
Verstappen himself recently secured his sixth victory at the Mexico City Grand Prix on November 1, 2026. Kimi Antonelli was crowned the 2026 Drivers’ Champion at the same event, with Verstappen currently holding second place in the standings. The Red Bull driver’s comments underscore the lasting impact of Brazil’s past champions and the inspiration they continue to provide for emerging talents in motorsport.
