Source: Official Team Post via X
Kimi Antonelli to Stick with Number 12 in 2027 Despite Potential Championship Win
Kimi Antonelli, on the brink of clinching the 2026 F1 title, reveals he will retain his number 12 rather than adopting the champion's number 1 for the 2027 season. The young Mercedes driver, honoring his idol Ayrton Senna, plans to keep his chosen number regardless of his championship status.
Mercedes' rising star, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, stands on the verge of winning the 2026 Formula 1 title. With the Mexican Grand Prix approaching, Antonelli needs just two points to secure his place in F1 history as the youngest ever champion at 20 years, two months, and eight days old. He leads his teammate George Russell by 123 points, with only 125 still available. While Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton remains in mathematical contention, he trails by 124 points, making Antonelli's triumph seem almost inevitable.
The question on many fans' minds is whether Antonelli will switch to the coveted number 1 plate, traditionally reserved for the reigning champion, or continue with his chosen number 12. Since the introduction of permanent numbers in 2014, only a few drivers, including Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Sebastian Vettel, have opted to use the number 1 after winning the title. However, Antonelli has made it clear that he plans to keep number 12, following in the footsteps of his idol Ayrton Senna, who used the number during his early career with Lotus and McLaren.
Antonelli confirmed his decision to Blick, stating, "First I have to do my job in Mexico. But I think that once I’ve finished winning the title, I’ll still compete with number 12." His choice pays homage to Senna, who only switched to the number 1 when it was automatically assigned to the reigning champion before the permanent number system was implemented.
This decision also mirrors the approach of his predecessor at Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton, who famously built his brand around the number 44, despite multiple championship wins. Antonelli's dedication to honoring Senna shows a respect for the history and tradition of the sport, as well as a personal connection to his racing hero.
Should Antonelli clinch the title, it will be the first time he must defend a championship in his career. Up until now, he has moved up the ranks after winning titles, from Italian and ADAC F4 in 2022 to the Formula Regional Middle East and European championships in 2023, and onto Formula 2 in 2024. His swift rise culminated in his Formula 1 debut with Mercedes in 2025.
As fans anticipate the outcome in Mexico City, Antonelli's choice to stick with his personal number is a testament to his individuality and a nod to his inspirations, carrying the legacy of one of F1's greatest icons into a new era.