Herbert remembers Senna's special attribute: 'It was Ayrton's rare ability'

Johnny Herbert has reflected upon his friendship with Ayrton Senna 30 years after the Brazilian's tragic death during the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix in Imola. The British driver competed in that race, and his early career was shared with Senna. 

Remembering Ayrton Senna

Senna passed away during Formula 1's darkest weekends. The three-time World Champion started from pole position and crashed early in the race. Herbert reflected on those moments when he drove past Senna. 

"Going past after the crash, I thought he was ok. We weren’t aware until after the race when we were told he had died. When I drove past the accident at the Tamburello corner, I could see that it was Ayrton. I didn’t think it would be of any significance. The way he hit the wall, there were still wheels on the car. It was still together. I didn’t see him slump to one side. I thought it was a normal crash and it would all be fine," Herbert is quoted by Instant Casino. 

Herbert went on to explain how he knew Senna during their karting days. "Then, seeing him go on to achieve what he did in his early days, for example, in the Toleman. That was Ayrton’s rare ability, to jump into any car, wrestle it around to get the best out of it."

One of the greatest

Senna won his World Championships in 1988, 1990 and 1991. Senna had just made a move to Williams, who went on to win the Constructors World Championship in 1994, 1996 and 1997. Herbert believes Senna could've added at least three world championships to his name in the following years. 

"He would have been world champion for several years to come. Probably three or more. We saw him getting to his peak in that period, but we were never able to see the best of that peak. It is difficult to compare eras but without doubt he was one of the greatest of all time. He was a pure racer but pretty complete with it. He was amazing in qualifying, he was brilliant at getting the best out of the car in race conditions," Herbert concluded.