Andrea Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes driver, has confirmed that he will not adopt the number 1 for the upcoming Formula 1 season, even though other drivers like Max Verstappen and Lando Norris have chosen to do so after winning their world titles. Instead, he will keep his current number, 12, which holds a special meaning for him.
In a recent statement after the Mexican Grand Prix, Antonelli said: “I think I will stick with number 12, it’s a very important number for me.” The number 12 is a tribute to his idol Ayrton Senna and was the first number he used in single-seaters, starting his career in Formula 4. Additionally, Antonelli is the first driver since Senna to win the world title with the same number, since 1988.
Apart from the emotional significance, Antonelli also got emotional while explaining his desire to remain humble and focused. “Keeping number 12 allows me to have a new starting point to continue improving,” he highlighted. This modest attitude has been evident throughout his season, especially after a standout performance in Austin, where he attributed his successes to his family and the Mercedes team.
Another reason why Antonelli has decided not to switch to number 1 is his belief in superstition. “Honestly, I am very superstitious and number 1 has never been a good number for me. Whenever I have carried it, things have not gone well,” he confessed with a laugh. This belief influenced him during the race weekend in Mexico, where he avoided thinking that the title was already a done deal to avoid ‘jinxing’ his success.
Now that his world title is secured, Antonelli can celebrate this great achievement. Despite his busy schedule with three consecutive races, he has promised to enjoy these moments once the tour ends in São Paulo.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
