Kimi Antonelli made history in Mexico City by becoming Formula One's youngest world champion and the first Italian titleholder in 73 years. Rather than switching to number one, which he noted has historically brought him bad luck, he will continue competing with number 12. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised the driver's humility and integrity, calling him a modern role model for the sport. Antonelli will also honor Ayrton Senna with a dedicated tribute helmet at the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo.
Key points
Antonelli will bypass the traditional champion's number one next season to avoid what he…: Antonelli will bypass the traditional champion's number one next season to avoid what he considers bad luck.
Carrying number 12 serves as a personal grounding mechanism and a direct link to his raci…: Carrying number 12 serves as a personal grounding mechanism and a direct link to his racing idol.
Mercedes leadership views Antonelli's respectful approach as an important shift away from…: Mercedes leadership views Antonelli's respectful approach as an important shift away from a win-at-all-costs mentality.
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MEXICO CITY, Nov 1 : Kimi Antonelli will not have the number one on his car next year out of superstition and humility, the 20-year-old Italian explained after becoming Formula One's youngest champion on Sunday.
The Mercedes driver took the title in Mexico City with racing number 12 on his car and he will keep that when he starts his reign.
"I'll stay with number 12 because, obviously, it's a very special number for me, but also it's a way for me to stay grounded, to stay humble," said the first Italian champion in 73 years.
"I feel like by keeping number 12 it allows me to have a new point where to start and build on everything again and try to improve. And also, to be honest, I'm very superstitious, and number one has never been a good number for me.
"Whenever I put it (on), it went extremely badly. So one more reason to stay with number 12."
Antonelli is the first F1 driver to win a championship with the number 12 since the late Brazilian triple champion…
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