Kimi Antonelli opts to keep number 12 for 2027 F1 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 2, 2026, 11:38 AM
Last updated Nov 2, 2026
Kimi Antonelli, the newly crowned Formula 1 world champion, announced he will retain his number 12 for the 2027 season instead of adopting the number 1. Antonelli emphasized the personal significance of number 12, honoring his idol Ayrton Senna, and noted his superstition regarding the number 1, which he associates with bad luck. This decision marks the first time the number 1 will not appear on the F1 grid since 2021. Antonelli expressed a desire to remain grounded as he prepares for upcoming races and celebrations following his recent title victory in Mexico.
- •Antonelli wins F1 world championship, replacing Sebastian Vettel as youngest champion.
- •The number 1 will not be used by Antonelli in 2027, marking a departure from tradition.
- •Number 12 symbolizes Antonelli's tribute to Ayrton Senna and his early career.
- •Antonelli cites superstition as a factor in keeping number 12.
- •Celebrations planned after the Sao Paulo Grand Prix following his championship victory.
- 11:38 AMYahoo Sports — Kimi Antonelli reveals why he won’t take number 1 for the 2027 F1 season
- 11:38 AMMotorsport.com — Kimi Antonelli reveals why he won’t take number 1 for the 2027 F1 season
"The number 1 will not be seen on the Formula 1 grid next season for the first time since 2021. Max Verstappen and Lando Norris have consistently decided to take the opportunity to claim number 1 after winning their world titles, but Antonelli will not do so. Asked by Motorsport.com whether he would switch to number 1 or whether number 12 held such special meaning for him that he wanted to keep ...Keep reading
"The Mercedes driver will keep number 12, as it holds special meaning for him. Moreover, the young Italian says he is superstitious and number 1 has often brought him bad luck
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsNov 2, 2026, 11:38 AMKimi Antonelli reveals why he won’t take number 1 for the 2027 F1 season
The Mercedes driver will keep number 12, as it holds special meaning for him. Moreover, the young Italian says he is superstitious and number 1 has often brought him bad luck
- Motorsport.comNov 2, 2026, 11:38 AMKimi Antonelli reveals why he won’t take number 1 for the 2027 F1 season
The number 1 will not be seen on the Formula 1 grid next season for the first time since 2021. Max Verstappen and Lando Norris have consistently decided to take the opportunity to claim number 1 after winning their world titles, but Antonelli will not do so. Asked by Motorsport.com whether he would switch to number 1 or whether number 12 held such special meaning for him that he wanted to keep ...Keep reading
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