Since the 1995 season, the first since the death of Ayrton Senna , Williams had worn a badge in honor of the legendary Brazilian driver on its single-seaters, usually in the nose area.
However, after the presentation of their new FW44 , the car with which they will compete in the 2022 Formula 1 championship, the world witnessed a completely blue decoration without any stickers in reference to the three-time champion from São Paulo.
When team boss Jost Capito was asked about it, he explained that the Grove team wanted to “turn the page” and stop reminding their drivers of the fateful 1994 San Marino Grand Prix . Despite that, the manager has confirmed that they will continue to honor Senna with a space in their museum dedicated to the legend.
“The decision was that we want to move forward in the future. We have a new era, a new car,” he said. “We reformed part of our museum, where we have a special area to honor Ayrton”.
“I think we have to look forward and not show the drivers the S every time they get in the car, reminding them of what happened. I think now is the time for the team to move forward and honor Senna. , in addition to having his space reserved to think about him”.
Capito added that the Brazilian’s family knew nothing about the decision, but said that Williams is working to have a closer relationship with the Senna foundation.
“We don’t consult with the family, but we are working with the foundation to support them more. I think more people benefit from this, if we can help people, especially through the foundation, I think it’s a very good project, but we have to further define it,” said the British chief.
Founded at the end of 1994, the Ayrton Senna Institute is an NGO chaired by the three-time champion’s sister, Viviane, and is dedicated to raising funds to support young Brazilians with educational and social programs.
Williams has not revealed the actual design of its car, as this FW44 is a mock-up, although drivers Alex Albon and Nicholas Latifi will get behind the wheel of the car this Tuesday afternoon at Silverstone.
