Antonelli Rejects F1 Number 1 as Wolff Defends Russell

Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has revealed he plans to retain his race number 12 even if he secures the Formula 1 World Championship in Mexico. The 20-year-old, who could become the sport's youngest champion, confirmed to Blick that he will not switch to the traditional number 1. The choice of 12 was inspired by his idol Ayrton Senna's Lotus years, echoing Lewis Hamilton's choice to retain number 44 during his title-winning campaigns.

Meanwhile, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff defended George Russell against comments from Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko claiming Russell has been relegated to number two status. Wolff stated Marko is wrong, explaining that current car characteristics do not suit Russell and insisting the British driver remains championship material with a competitive car.