F1: Top 5 Races of Ayrton Senna

#3 1988 Japanese Grand Prix

1988 Japanese Grand Prix

Ayrton Senna qualified on pole during the 1988 Japanese Grand Prix but unfortunately, his McLaren stalled on the grid. However, all hope was not lost. The Suzuka circuit gave him the perfect opportunity to evade retirement because of the start/finish line being on a slope.

After getting his Honda-powered car to start, Senna had the uphill task of scoring worthwhile points for the championship title after he had dropped down to 14th. Perhaps it was expected of the Brazilian to put up a strong fight, but the manner in which he did so exceeded everyone’s expectations.

He efficiently made his way back up the grid and as the then race leader, Alain Prost, safeguarded his position against second placed, Ivan Capelli, Senna sifted into third and began his hunt for the race win.

By the time the March driver’s engine failed him, Ayrton was within breathing distance of the Frenchman. Once the backmarkers came into the picture, the Brazilian clinched his chance to slip past his main title rival.

Prost remained nearby for a few laps, but Senna never relented, eventually grabbing the top spot on the podium.