Senna: The Test (2017) explores a unique moment in Ayrton Senna's career when, on December 20, 1992, he tested a Penske IndyCar in Phoenix, Arizona. Amid frustrations with McLaren, Senna briefly considered switching to IndyCar, with this test marking his only serious exploration of American racing. The documentary, created by Marshall Pruett and Travis Long, features insights from figures like Emerson Fittipaldi and Rick Mears, capturing this rare event in Senna’s life and his motivations during a challenging period in his career.
12-20-2017
26 min
THIS
HELLA
Doesn't have an image right now... sorry!has no image... sorry!
Main Cast
Movie Details
Production Info
Directors:
Travis Long, Marshall Pruett
Writer:
Marshall Pruett
Locations and Languages
Country:
US
Filming:
US
Languages:
en
Main Cast
Marshall Pruett
Marshall Pruett is an esteemed American motorsports journalist, photographer, and podcaster with a career spanning over three decades. He began his journey in auto racing in 1986 as a mechanic, engineer, and team manager, working across various series, including CART, IRL IndyCar, IMSA, World Challenge, Indy Lights, Formula Atlantic, Pro Mazda, and FF2000.
Transitioning to journalism in 2006, Pruett has become a prominent figure in motorsports media, contributing to outlets such as RACER magazine and Road & Track. His work encompasses in-depth reporting, analysis, and photography, covering open-wheel and sports car racing. In May 2016, Pruett launched the "Marshall Pruett Podcast," featuring interviews with drivers, engineers, and industry insiders, as well as discussions on racing history and current events. The podcast has garnered a substantial following, reaching over two million downloads by November 2018. Pruett's extensive experience and passion for motorsports have made him a respected voice in the racing community, known for his insightful commentary and dedication to the sport.
Known For
Roger Penske
Roger Penske, born on February 20, 1937, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, is an American motorsport legend, entrepreneur, and founder of Penske Corporation. Known for his business acumen and passion for racing, Penske built a motorsport empire that includes IndyCar, NASCAR, and previously, Formula 1 teams. His team, Team Penske, is one of the most successful in motorsport history, particularly in the IndyCar Series, where it has claimed numerous championships and victories, including multiple wins at the prestigious Indianapolis 500.
Penske's influence extends beyond racing; he is a successful businessman with a diverse portfolio, including Penske Truck Leasing and a network of automotive dealerships. In 2019, Penske acquired the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the IndyCar Series, further cementing his impact on American motorsport. Known for his meticulous approach and commitment to excellence, Penske is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in racing history, with a legacy that spans over six decades.
Rick Mears, born on December 3, 1951, in Wichita, Kansas, USA, is a former American racing driver renowned for his success in IndyCar racing. Known for his smooth and precise driving style, Mears is one of only four drivers to win the prestigious Indianapolis 500 four times (1979, 1984, 1988, and 1991). Primarily associated with Team Penske, he built a legendary career and is celebrated as one of IndyCar's all-time greats. Following his retirement in 1992, Mears has continued to contribute to the sport as a trusted advisor for Penske Racing.
Known For
Paul Tracy
Paul Tracy, born on December 17, 1968, in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, is a former Canadian racing driver known for his aggressive driving style and success in IndyCar racing. Tracy won the CART Championship in 2003 and achieved numerous race victories throughout his career, gaining a reputation as a fierce competitor on the track. His bold personality and dedication to racing made him one of the most memorable figures in North American motorsport.
Hélio Castroneves, born on May 10, 1975, in São Paulo, Brazil, is a celebrated Brazilian racing driver known for his success in IndyCar and sports car racing. A four-time winner of the Indianapolis 500 (2001, 2002, 2009, and 2021), Castroneves is renowned for his skill, charisma, and his signature "spider-man" fence climb celebration. His achievements have made him one of the most popular and successful drivers in American open-wheel racing history.
Tony Kanaan, born on December 31, 1974, in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, is a Brazilian racing driver celebrated for his achievements in IndyCar racing. Known for his consistency and endurance, Kanaan won the 2004 IndyCar Series Championship and achieved victory at the Indianapolis 500 in 2013. His resilience and charismatic personality have made him a fan favorite and one of the most respected drivers in American open-wheel racing.
Jeremy Shaw, born on April 22, 1955, in England, is a respected motorsport journalist, commentator, and talent scout, particularly known for his contributions to sports car racing and open-wheel racing. He has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing young talent through the Team USA Scholarship, which he founded to support emerging American drivers. Shaw's extensive career in motorsport media and his dedication to the development of future racing stars have made him a prominent figure in the racing community.
Emerson Fittipaldi is a racing legend renowned for his achievements in Formula One and IndyCar racing. Fittipaldi burst onto the international racing scene in the late 1960s, showcasing his exceptional talent and speed.
In Formula One, he clinched two World Drivers' Championships in 1972 and 1974, driving for Lotus and McLaren, becoming the youngest champion at that time. Fittipaldi's smooth driving style and strategic prowess made him a formidable competitor on the track.
Transitioning to American open-wheel racing, Fittipaldi found success in the Indianapolis 500, winning the prestigious race twice in 1989 and 1993. His versatility and adaptability across different racing disciplines solidified his status as one of the most versatile and accomplished drivers of his era.
Beyond his racing career, Fittipaldi has been involved in various business ventures and continues to be a respected figure in the motorsport world, inspiring generations of racers with his passion and dedication to the sport.
