On April 21, 1985, Ayrton Senna crossed the finish line to record his first Formula 1 win at a wet Portuguese Grand Prix. The legendary driver demonstrated what he could do, lapping nearly everyone (with only Michele Alboreto also on the lead lap).

Senna himself considered this win as the greatest of his career (41 in total), contrary to the popular view that the win at the 1993 European Grand Prix (held at Donington) was his best—Senna’s “Lap of the Gods” in the opening lap in wet conditions remains in everyone’s heads.

“No way! I had traction control there. It was a good win, but compared to Estoril ’85, it was nothing,” he was quoted as saying.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of Senna’s first victory, the same Lotus 97T F1 car he drove at the 1985 Portuguese Grand Prix has now visited the Estoril circuit again for the first time. His nephew, Bruno Senna, was behind the wheel.

The tribute coincides with the 75th anniversary of Formula 1, and also celebrates Lotus’s innovations. The 97T was the first car to feature vertical aerodynamic devices just after the front wheels for better airflow—now known as bargeboards, which we see to this day.

“It’s an incredible feeling to drive this iconic car, marking the beginning of a series of victories and achievements by my uncle,” Bruno Senna shared. “This celebration brings fans from all over the world and shows how Ayrton Senna remains a powerful name in motorsport, and a positive influence in society in many ways—from educational impact to sustainable innovation, and as a movement that continues to inspire generations to pursue their dream and never give up.”

“For Team Lotus, Ayrton’s arrival was a defining moment,” Classic Team Lotus managing director Clive Chapman said. “His talent, technical understanding, and relentless drive helped push the team forward. This anniversary allows us to relive that magic and honor his legacy. Bruno Senna’s commemorative drive at Estoril is an emotional and historic moment, bringing the past full circle and cementing Senna’s enduring impact on motorsport.”