In 1989, Ayrton Senna wrote a happy birthday to a young man who was celebrating his birthday.
Autograph and dedication from Ayrton Senna to Rafael, a child fan of the driver.
October 15, 1989, Guarulhos airport (SP).
7 cm x 9.2 cm.
Some small stains.
Unique piece.
Rafael was returning from Disney in 1989. His Pan Am flight was delayed, and he was supposed to arrive in Brazil on October 14, 1989, but only landed on the 15th. During the connection in Guarulhos, he and his father met none other than Ayrton Senna. Since it was Rafael's birthday, his father didn't miss the opportunity and asked the Brazilian idol for an autograph. Ayrton, with his characteristic kindness and charisma, made sure to write a special message for Rafael, leaving on paper an unforgettable moment that he would cherish for the rest of his life.
Senna had already won his first world title in 1988, racing for the McLaren-Honda team. In 1989, he remained with McLaren, but faced an increasingly fierce rivalry with his teammate Alain Prost. This internal dispute was one of the most famous and controversial in Formula One history. During the 1989 championship, tensions between Senna and Prost reached a high level, with both competing fiercely for the title. The rivalry culminated in a dramatic incident at the penultimate race of the season, the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.
Despite being small in size (a little bigger than a bank card) and showing some signs of age, this autograph is very rare, as it is a dedication to the young Rafael, wishing him a happy birthday and good health. There are very few dedications from Senna, usually reserved for friends, family and business partners.
