Formula 1

This Christmas, December 25 🎄, became a special day for me. Finally, with the free time the holiday provides, I could sit down and enjoy the long-awaited Netflix series about Ayrton Senna. This six-episode blockbuster 📺 is a biographical tribute to the Brazilian driver 🇧🇷, considered one of the most iconic figures in motorsport. The series, filmed in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Ireland, and other parts of Europe 🌍, is a visual and emotional gift for motorsport fans. However, beyond my initial excitement, this series left me with mixed feelings 🤔 that I want to share in my opinion column. A TRIBUTE TO AN ICON: LIGHTS AND SHADOWS ✨(IMÁGENES GETTY) From the start, “Senna” presents itself as an ambitious production 🎥. The narrative begins with the tragic 1994 accident at Imola, Italy ⚠️, which ended the life of the three-time Formula 1 world champion 🏆. This dramatic starting point takes us through the most important moments of his life: his childhood in Brazil 🏡, his beginnings in karting 🛞, his meteoric rise 🚀 in the lower categories, and his establishment in F1 🏎️. All of this is wrapped in flawless cinematography that stands out for its attention to detail 🔍, from the cars and race suits 👕 to the recreations of iconic circuits like Monaco and Suzuka 🏁. Despite these virtues, the series also suffers from superficiality. While it captures Senna’s heroic essence 💪, it overlooks more complex aspects of his personality. Ayrton wasn’t just an exceptional driver 🏅; he was also a man full of contradictions 🤯, a philosophical figure 🧠 who reflected on life, death, and the meaning of his profession. These layers are barely touched upon in the script ✍️, which deprives viewers of a more complete and human portrait of the driver. ACTING AND NARRATIVE: HITS AND MISSES 🎭 Gabriel Leone gives a convincing performance in the role of Ayrton Senna 👌, capturing his charisma and determination on the track 🏁. However, the introspective moments are scarce 🕊️. The introduction of a fictional character, British journalist Laura Harrison 📰, played by Kaya Scodelario, adds an interesting perspective to the story but also diverts attention from elements that could have deepened the real-life story of the driver. The involvement of Senna’s family in the production ensures an authorized version of the facts ✅, but also limits the scope of the narrative. The series avoids exploring controversial topics ⚡ or less flattering episodes of his career, making it almost a hagiographic tribute. In this sense, the production feels more like a visual homage 🌟 than a critical or psychological exploration. DETAILS THAT WIN US OVER AS FANS 🏎️❤️ (IMAGES GETTY) One of the standout points of “Senna” is its ability to excite motorsport fans 🏁. The recreation of the races is spectacular 🌟, with scenes that transport the viewer to the adrenaline of F1 in the 80s and 90s 🔥. The references to iconic moments, like his first victory in the rain at Estoril 🌧️ or his rivalry with Alain Prost 🤜🤛, are a delight for those of us who know the history by heart 🧠. However, as a motorsport enthusiast and journalist, I can’t help but feel that a golden opportunity was missed 🪙 to delve into the details that truly define Senna’s legacy 🌍. For example, the series largely omits his impact off the track, such as his philanthropic commitment 🤝 and his influence on the development of safety in Formula 1 🛡️. These aspects could have added a richer dimension to the story. THE INEVITABLE COMPARISON WITH THE KAPADIA DOCUMENTARY 🎥 It’s inevitable to compare this series with the acclaimed Asif Kapadia documentary, “Senna” (2010) 🎬. While the documentary focuses on a more raw and emotional narrative 😢, the Netflix series takes a more stylized and dramatic approach 🎭. Both works have their merits 🏅, but also their limitations. The series is an ideal entry point for those unfamiliar with Ayrton 🚪, but for die-hard fans, it might feel insufficient. CONCLUSION: A TRIBUTE THAT FALLS SHORT 🚦 “Senna” is a production worth watching, especially for its visual quality 👀 and its intention to honor a motorsport icon 🌟. However, it’s also a reminder that the greatness of Ayrton Senna can’t be easily encapsulated in six episodes 📏. It’s a series that excites ❤️ but also leaves you wanting more 🤷‍♂️. If you’re a motorsport lover 🏎️, don’t hesitate to watch it. But if you’re looking to understand the man behind the wheel 🎙️, I’d recommend complementing this experience with readings 📚, documentaries 🎥, and other materials that delve deeply into the complexity of this legendary driver. Ayrton Senna was much more than a three-time champion 🏆; he was a man who lived and died on the edge 💥, and his legacy deserves to be explored in full depth 🔎.

Mexican driver Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez has announced his retirement from Formula 1, leaving behind a brilliant career with Red Bull Racing and solidifying himself as one of the most successful Mexican athletes of all time. On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Pérez confirmed his departure through a statement on his social media, a news that was quickly supported by his team. A CAREER FULL OF SUCCESSES AND EARNINGS 💥✨ Since his debut in Formula 1, Checo Pérez has raced for renowned teams such as Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, and finally, Red Bull Racing. It was with the latter where he reached his greatest fame and amassed a fortune. 🔑 Key facts about Checo Pérez’s earnings: Base salary at Red Bull Racing (2024): $14 million. Bonus in 2023: $16 million, accumulating $26 million that year. Estimated daily salary (2024): $38,888 (approximately $1,620 per hour). With a net worth exceeding $50 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth, the Guadalajara-born driver not only triumphed on the track but also in the business world. 💼💵 CHECO’S BUSINESS SIDE: A MULTIMILLION-DOLLAR BRAND 💎🌟 Checo Pérez is much more than a Formula 1 driver. His entrepreneurial vision led him to diversify his sources of income: Global Sponsorships: Brands like Nescafé and Mobil bet on his image, making Checo one of the most sought-after Mexican athletes for advertising campaigns. 🏆📣 Smart investments: He is a partner of Kavak, the innovative used car buying and selling company. 🚗🛠️ Product line: His own brand of clothing and dietary supplements has captured the attention of his fans. 👕⚡ Entertainment: His participation in Drive to Survive on Netflix and his documentary series on Disney+ generated additional income and unprecedented media reach. 🎥📺 THE FUTURE AFTER F1: TIME FOR FAMILY 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦❤️ According to Antonio Pérez Garibay, Checo’s father, the driver has no plans to sign with another team. “This is his goodbye. Now he will dedicate time to his family,” he assured. 🌟 This decision marks the end of a cycle, but it leaves an indelible legacy in motorsport. A LEGACY BEYOND THE TRACKS 🚤🇲🇽 Checo has also proven to be passionate about promoting new disciplines. In 2023, he founded Team México, a team that competes in electric boat championships, showing his interest in innovative and sustainable projects. 🌊⚡ THE FORTUNE OF A CHAMPION AND A MEXICAN ICON 💰🏁 Checo Pérez’s success is a testament to his talent, hard work, and strategic vision. His fortune not only reflects his achievements in motorsport but also his ability to build a global brand that inspires millions of Mexicans. With his retirement, Pérez leaves a void on the tracks, but his legacy as a driver and businessman will continue to inspire future generations. Thank you for everything, Checo! 🚗🇲🇽✨