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Number Duel: Kimi Antonelli Secures #12 for F1 Debut After Tense Standoff with Jack Doohan
In 2025, a pair of Formula 1 racers vied for the same number – here's the outcome
Formula 1 racers are required to choose a number that they will use throughout their entire career
Kimi Antonelli and Jack Doohan each had their sights set on the same number for their debut season in Formula 1 in 2025.
Antonelli has emerged victorious in the battle for the much sought-after #12.
F1 rules dictate that drivers are required to choose a number that will remain unchanged for the entirety of their career.
A number only becomes available for use again if its last occupant has not participated in F1 for two full seasons.
Since 2019, the number 12 has not been assigned
However, both Antonelli from Mercedes and Doohan from Alpine were eager to have it.
"12 holds a unique place for me among my favored numbers," Antonelli revealed. "Ever since my F4 days, it's been my go-to. It's always brought good fortune, so I see no need to switch it up for the upcoming season."
Antonelli competed using the number 12 during the first practice session for the F1 Italian Grand Prix, where he drove for Mercedes.
Significantly, during the 1980s, Ayrton Senna competed using the number 12 for multiple seasons.
Antonelli likely submitted his application for the #12 spot ahead of Doohan, which resulted in him being selected by the FIA.
"Doohan opted for the number 12," he declared, prior to it being selected by Antonelli.
"After reflecting on it during the summer vacation, we made a final decision, so I'll be kicking off my Formula 1 season with the number 12."
Doohan is now tasked with selecting a new number to initiate his Formula 1 journey, aware that this number will accompany him throughout his tenure in the series.
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