Norris reflects on carrying F1 #1 as he hands it to Antonelli

Lando Norris has spoken of his honour and pride at carrying the #1 as reigning world champion in 2026. He will lose the right to run the number for 2027, when Kimi Antonelli succeeds him as champion. Antonelli has said he will not use the #1, preferring his personal number #12, and Norris will revert to #4.

Norris said he was happy to see the number go to someone who deserves it, adding that Antonelli has done an incredible job this season. He described the feeling of racing with the #1 as special, placing his name alongside Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. He said the number is a positive reminder of the team's achievements and hard work rather than a reason to feel superior.

Norris noted that only Hamilton, among reigning champions who defended their title, has avoided running the #1, choosing the #44 during his Mercedes years.