Ayrton Senna conquered her first Formula 1 victory over the Estoril track on April 21, 1985, 40 years ago. The Lotus 97t with which he succeeded is exposed to the starting straight of the Portuguese track
The Estoril track was the theater of the first victory in Formula 1 of Ayrton SennaThe April 21, 1985. 40 years later, the Lotus 97t of the Brazilian pilot returns to the same track, where he is exhibited on the starting straight Sunday 20 and Monday 21 April: For the occasion, the public can freely access the track. There was also a performance on the track, with the car that would return to tread the asphalt of the Portuguese track In the hands of Bruno Sennagrandson of Ayrton: for technical problems to the engine encountered in Goodwood the previous weekend, unfortunately this cannot happen. However, it remains an important moment to celebrate the first of 41 wins of the Brazilian champion in F1.
Lotus 97t: how it is made
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Car with a simple and clean design, the 97T used many elements of the 96T single -seater, intended for the never made of Lotus Indycar program. Among the most interesting innovations at the aerodynamic level, the lateral bulkheads behind the front wheels made its debut. The chassis is a carbon fiber monocoque, while the front and rear suspensions are pull-rod with double oscillating arm. The engine is a Renault Turbo V6 from 1,492 cc of displacement, mounted longitudinally in a central position, with a power Between 760 and 810 HP paid to 11,500-12,500 rpm. Just this engine was the cause of many problems during the season, which saw Senna retire seven times out of 16 races played. The gearbox was five -speed manual, made by Lotus/Hewland. The weight is of 540 kg And the equipped tires are goodyear.
The shirt of the Estoril Praia
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In addition to being able to see the car exposed on the straight line of the finish live, those who go to the Estoril circuit on the occasion of the anniversary will also be able to try the Lotus 97t to the simulator, always free of charge. But Senna’s first victory is not only celebrated on the track: even the football team of theEstoril Praiawho plays in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, paid homage to the Brazilian champion with one Special uniform worn on April 19, 2025 during the home meeting against Sporting Braga.
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