Why Ayrton Senna and Kimi Räikkönen inspire me
As a new race driver competing in Formula First, I often look to my favourite drivers for inspiration. Two drivers who I love are Ayrton Senna and Kimi Räikkönen. They were quite different in style, but they shared a commitment to excellence that I try to aim for every time I’m on the track.
The speed of Senna, the calm of Kimi
Senna’s raw speed, especially in qualifying, and his ability to push the car to its absolute limit, even in pouring rain, are qualities I really admire. When I’m on track, I try to channel Senna’s determination to find every bit of performance in my car.
Kimi, on the other hand, had a very different mindset: calm, calculated, and in control. His ability to stay cool under pressure reminds me to keep my emotions in check, no matter what’s happening around me, even in chaotic moments during a race.
Learning mental toughness
Both drivers were mentally strong, but in different ways. Senna’s relentless drive and absolute desire to win at all costs taught me the importance of believing in myself, even when I’m struggling for speed. Whether it’s recovering from a bad start or adapting to challenging track conditions, I try to channel a bit of Senna.
On the other hand, Kimi’s laid-back attitude is a reminder that overthinking can be my biggest enemy. He let his driving speak for itself, cutting out distractions and focusing solely on what mattered: performing on the track. I always try to bring that clarity into my own racing.
Combining passion with precision
Senna’s fearless overtakes and high-risk strategies are things I try to carry into every race. Racing isn’t just a sport for me, it’s a way to express myself and my drive to succeed. But Kimi’s precision and consistency remind me that brilliance doesn’t always have to look fancy. It’s about doing the right thing at the right time, every time.
What they teach me about legacy
For me, Senna’s story is a reminder that passion, courage, and grit can leave a lasting impact. He inspires me to race with my heart. Kimi, with his quiet brilliance, shows me that a consistent, no-nonsense approach can lead to greatness too.
In my Formula First car, I try to combine their strengths: Senna’s fearless drive to be the fastest and Kimi’s calm focus to deliver results. They’ve taught me that there’s no single way to be a great driver, but there’s one thing all legends share, a strong commitment to being the best version of themselves on the track. That’s a lesson I carry with me, lap after lap.
