Lewis Hamilton has received special FIA dispensation to run the #1 on his Mercedes’ nose during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend to celebrate his fifth Formula 1 world championship.
Since F1 changed its numbering system in 2014 to allow drivers to choose their own number, Hamilton has had the right to run #1 in 2015, ’16 and ’18 thanks to championship victories but always chose to stick with his own #44 instead.
But in Abu Dhabi on Friday his Mercedes appeared with the #1 on the nose in addition to #44 in its usual position further back.
A Mercedes spokesperson confirmed that Hamilton had requested and been given permission to add the #1 to the nose for this event after his recent title success – even though the car has still been officially entered and races under the #44.
According to F1’s regulations, each car is supposed to carry the number of the driver in a location that is clearly visible from the front of the car and on the driver’s crash helmet.
A separate clause relating to drivers’ number personal choices adds: “The only exception to this allocation process will be for the reigning world champion who will have the option to use the #1.
“The number that was previously allocated to him will be reserved for him in subsequent seasons if he does not retain the title of world champion.”