Kimi Antonelli has confirmed that he will continue to race with the number 12 as he prepares to defend his Formula 1® World Drivers' Championship title in 2027. This decision follows his historic achievement as the youngest world champion at just 20 years old, a milestone he reached after securing third place at the 2026 Mexico City Grand Prix.
During the 2026 season, Antonelli demonstrated remarkable consistency and speed, winning nine races and only missing the podium on three occasions. As the reigning champion, he had the option to switch to the traditional number 1, a choice available to title holders since drivers began selecting their own numbers in 2014. However, Antonelli opted to retain his current race number, 12.
The number 12 holds special significance for Antonelli, as it was also the number Ayrton Senna used when he won his first championship in 1988. Antonelli has expressed that keeping this number reflects a desire to stay humble and is influenced by his personal superstition, as he associates the number 1 with bad luck. This choice underscores a thoughtful approach to his championship defense with Mercedes in the upcoming season.
Since the introduction of permanent driver numbers in 2014, reigning champions have had the option to race with number 1, but many have chosen to keep their personal numbers instead. Antonelli’s decision to maintain number 12 aligns with this trend and highlights the personal connection drivers have with their chosen numbers in the modern era of the sport.
Mercedes will continue to support Antonelli as he aims to build on his successful 2026 campaign. His choice of number 12 not only pays homage to one of Formula 1®’s legends but also reflects his mindset heading into the new season. It serves as a reminder that while the number 1 is traditionally associated with the champion, personal meaning and superstition still play a role in the sport’s culture.
Antonelli’s 2026 season was marked by impressive performances and consistency, setting a strong foundation for his title defense. His approach to the 2027 season, including his race number choice, offers insight into his character and the way he balances respect for tradition with his own beliefs.
As the 2027 season approaches, Antonelli’s decision to race with number 12 will be a subtle but meaningful aspect of his campaign to retain the Formula 1® World Drivers' Championship.