In this article
Reasons Behind Number 12 Selection
2026 Formula 1 champion Kimi Antonelli has revealed the reasons behind his choice to race with number 12. The Mercedes-AMG Petronas driver holds an emotional bond with the digit that extends beyond inspiration from Brazilian racing legend Ayrton Senna, with the number also representing a key part of his journey since junior racing.
Single-Seater Beginnings and Junior Titles
Reporting from Formula 1 indicates that Antonelli directly chose number 12 when asked which competition number he wanted to use. The Italian driver explained that the number was not new to him, having accompanied his early career as his very first number in junior single-seater competition. Antonelli achieved championship success with the number across junior categories, using number 12 when winning both the Italian Formula 4 and ADAC Formula 4 titles in 2022. He retained the number the following season while securing the Formula Regional Middle East and Formula Regional European championships.
Related posts
Ayrton Senna's 1988 Campaign
When asked further about the number during a podcast, Antonelli pointed directly to his motorsport idol, noting that the Brazilian driver used number 12, won a first championship with it, and served as an inspiration. Senna used number 12 while competing for McLaren during the 1988 season, driving a competitive Honda-powered MP4/4 and competing closely with Alain Prost. Senna secured his first championship that season after taking eight Grand Prix victories, making number 12 part of a historic chapter in his career.
Continuity Into Formula 1
Antonelli explained that although he likes multiple racing numbers, 12 remains special because of the positive results achieved since Formula 4, leaving no reason to change for next year. Following his decision to retain number 12 after claiming the 2026 championship, he has an opportunity to continue his journey with the number. Retaining the digits reflects his achievements across junior racing and provides an enduring reminder of the figure who inspired his career.
