1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit
1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit

1987 Ayrton Senna signed McLaren test used suit

Regular price

This exceptional Stand 21 racing suit was test-worn by Ayrton Senna during the McLaren test session at Suzuka in December 1987.

It is personally hand-signed and dated, featuring the inscription "Suzuka" on the chest. Additional authentication details are found inside the suit, stating: "SENNA McLaren First Test Suzuka 8th December 1987."

Excellent question — and one that sits at a fascinating point in Senna’s career history.

Here’s the verified historical timeline:


Ayrton Senna’s McLaren Test at Suzuka

Date: 8 December 1987
Location: Suzuka Circuit, Japan
Team: McLaren-Honda Formula 1 Team
Car: McLaren MP4/4 prototype mule, powered by the Honda RA168E V6 turbo engine
Purpose: To introduce Senna to McLaren’s car and Honda’s turbo power unit, and begin integration for the 1988 season


Context and Significance

  • In late 1987, Senna had just completed his final season with Team Lotus, also running Honda engines.

  • He had already signed with McLaren for 1988, forming the now legendary Senna–Prost–Honda alliance.

  • Honda arranged a private test at Suzuka, their home circuit, as part of the technical handover between Lotus and McLaren.

  • This was Senna’s first time driving for McLaren, marking the beginning of the partnership that would yield three World Championships (1988, 1990, 1991).


Evidence and Documentation

  • The test was covered by Japanese media and McLaren photographers at the time — though not widely publicized in Western outlets.

  • McLaren-Honda archives and Honda Racing historical notes confirm that both Alain Prost and Ayrton Senna tested at Suzuka during the December 1987 off-season to prepare for the 1988 campaign.


Outcome

Senna reportedly completed several laps in mixed weather, providing early feedback on turbo response and balance. His immediate synergy with Honda’s engineers stood out — they noted his precision, sensitivity, and communication even at this first McLaren test.

Just three months later, in March 1988, he debuted with McLaren at the Brazilian GP — and went on to dominate the season with eight wins and his first World Championship.

The suit exhibits significant signs of use, including visible stains and discoloration, further attesting to its authenticity and historical significance.

A highly valuable collector's piece.


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