Fasten those seatbelts because Netflix is ready to deliver an new exhilarating sports racing series, “Senna,” directed by Vicente Amorim and Júlia Rezende. Brazilian Formula One-winning racing driver Ayrton Senna‘s historic victory at the 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos marked the driver’s first victory in his hometown of Sao Paulo after a difficult race in which he was mostly stuck in sixth gear.
That legendary race is recreated in the limited series, which will premiere later this year and features narration by famed Brazilian commentator Galvão Bueno. The film also features some of the notable characters that shaped Ayrton’s life that year, such as Xuxa (Pâmela Tomé), Alain Prost (Matt Mella), Ron Dennis (Patrick Kennedy), and Galvão Bueno (Gabriel Louchard). Ayrton, himself, is played by Gabriel Leone, A Brazilian actor and musician known nationally for his role in the telenovela “Hidden Truths” while gaining further international recognition for his role as Alfonso de Portago in Michael Mann’s racing drama “Ferrari.”
The series will consist of a total of six episodes and will depict Ayrton’s journey to become a legendary racer against all odds. “Senna” begins with the three-time Formula 1 champion’s arrival in England to participate in the Formula Ford class and continues until his untimely death during the San Marino Grand Prix in Imola, Italy.
“Senna” is produced by Gullane and developed in collaboration with Senna Brands and the driver’s family. Vicente Amorim serves as showrunner and co-director, while Julia Rezende handles creative duties. Senna became a much bigger name outside the racing world following the acclaimed 2010 documentary of the same name directed Asif Kapadia which depicted his life and tragic death. It’s arguable “Senna” the series might not have even become a thing without that landmark doc.
“Senna” has no release date, but Netflix says the film is “coming soon.” Watch the trailer here: