1985 Ayrton Senna Race Used John Player Special Team Lotus F1 Helmet

This helmet was worn by three-time F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna while driving for the John Player Special Team Lotus during the 1985 Formula 1 season.

Painted by fellow Brazilian Sid Mosca, this helmet was introduced midway through the season and used from the German Grand Prix onwards. With only a limited number of helmets for the season, this one was seen during multiple Grand Prix races. At the Austrian GP on August 18th, Team Lotus mechanic Chris Dinnage recalls removing the life support tube at Senna's request, covering the exposed holes with yellow tape (still present today). This change was made following the tragic loss of Marcus Winkelhock, as the tube had contributed to his injuries when it was dislodged during an incident.

This helmet was photographed extensively during practice at Zandvoort and throughout the Italian GP weekend at Monza, where Senna secured his fifth pole position and finished third after a challenging race. It also appeared at the European Grand Prix at Brands Hatch, where he achieved another stunning pole and finished second in the race. With its history tied to two pole positions and two podium finishes, this helmet is a coveted item for any F1 collector.

With most of Senna's helmets in the hands of the family, this is an ultra rare opportunity to own one of his genuine race worn helmets.

The helmet comes with extensive paperwork and letters of provenance including photo matches and a Certificate of Authenticity.