Monte Carlo, Monaco – July 1, 2025
In a moment that will be etched in Formula 1 history, former world champion Kimi Räikkönen has unveiled a giant bronze statue of his childhood hero, Ayrton Senna, at the iconic Monaco Grand Prix circuit.
The statue, which now stands proudly near the entrance to the Sainte Devote corner, was revealed in an emotionally charged ceremony that brought together F1 legends, current drivers, and motorsport fans from around the world. Towering at 12 feet, the sculpture captures Senna in his most iconic form — race suit zipped, helmet under one arm, gaze fixed with determination.
“He Was Everything I Wanted to Be”
Known for his cold demeanor and monosyllabic answers, Räikkönen broke character to speak with heartfelt clarity during the unveiling:
“This was the only driver I ever looked up to. Senna was fast, fearless, and honest — not perfect, but real. I don’t do speeches, but this isn’t about me. It’s about what he meant to racing, to the fans, and to me as a kid watching him from Finland.”
The crowd, largely stunned by the raw emotion from the notoriously reserved Finn, gave a standing ovation.
Monte Carlo was a natural choice. Ayrton Senna won the Monaco Grand Prix six times, the most in F1 history. His dominance on the tight, unforgiving street circuit earned him the title of “The King of Monaco”.
“There’s no better place to honor him than here,” said Prince Albert II of Monaco, who was in attendance. “Senna brought beauty, intensity, and drama to this track — and to this nation.”
The initiative was surprisingly conceived and financed by Räikkönen himself, along with silent backing from former McLaren and Ferrari team members, and the Senna Foundation in Brazil. Designed by Finnish sculptor Elina Aalto, the piece took 14 months to complete and was cast in the same foundry that created Olympic monuments.
The statue will serve as a permanent memorial, with a commemorative plaque inscribed with Senna’s iconic quote:
“Being second is to be the first of the ones who lose.”
The moment stirred emotion across the paddock. Fernando Alonso called it “one of the most beautiful tributes F1 has ever seen.” Lewis Hamilton, another self-professed Senna admirer, stood silently beside Räikkönen during the unveiling, wearing a black armband in homage.
McLaren CEO Zak Brown also paid respects, saying:
“It’s incredible that Kimi, a man of few words, let action speak on behalf of all of us who owe a part of our passion for racing to Ayrton.”
For Räikkönen, this wasn’t just about paying tribute — it was about ensuring that new generations remember the fire and artistry Senna brought to Formula 1.
“I never cared much for ceremonies or attention,” Räikkönen added. “But Senna wasn’t just a racer. He was the standard. And if I can give the sport one last thing — it’s reminding everyone of that.”
The Monaco Grand Prix circuit now hosts not just the most glamorous race on the calendar — but a monument to the most authentically brilliant driver the sport has ever known, brought to life by one of its most enigmatic legends.
Ayrton Senna. Immortalized. In Monaco. By Kimi Räikkönen.
Some stories write themselves.
