Source: REUTERS/HAMAD I
MOHAMMED
[Saba Sports News] In
2014, F1 introduced fixed race numbers for drivers to enhance their recognition
among fans. Each driver selects a permanent race number to use throughout their
F1 career, with the exception of the reigning world champion who has the
privilege to change their number. If a driver leaves F1, they can retain their
old number for up to two years in case of a potential return to the sport. The
choice of race number often holds a personal significance for the driver, such
as being a lucky number or representing a special memory. One example is Max
Verstappen from Red Bull Racing. After winning the F1 world championship in the
2021 season, he exercised his right to change his number from No. 33 to No. 1.
Verstappen stated that as long as he remains the world champion, he will race
with the number 1 to signify his status as “NO. 1.” However, if he
loses the championship, he hopes that someone else will take the number 1 so he
can return to using the number 33. Verstappen considers “3” to be a
lucky number, and 33 symbolizes double luck. On the other hand, Lewis Hamilton
of the Mercedes team has chosen to retain the number 44 throughout his seven F1
world championships. Despite having the opportunity to change his number,
Hamilton has consistently raced with the number 44.