Kimi Antonelli to keep number 12 for 2027 after maiden F1 title

Kimi Antonelli has confirmed he will continue using race number 12 in the 2027 Formula 1 season, rather than switching to number 1 as reigning champion.

Antonelli won the 2026 title at the Mexico Grand Prix, becoming the youngest ever Formula 1 champion at the age of 20 and breaking the record previously held by Sebastian Vettel. He won nine Grands Prix during the season, as well as one Sprint Race at the British Grand Prix.

Asked about his choice after finishing third in Mexico, Antonelli said the number was "a very special number" to him and a way to stay grounded. He also said he was superstitious, noting that number 1 had never been a good number for him.