Every 2026 F1 driver number - and why they chose them
Every F1 driver number for the 2026 F1 season, including the inspiration behind their choices, the rules behind choosing numbers, and the ones that can’t be picked
The big stories from the past week in motor sport from the Archive.
It may be only January, but Argentina twice hosted Formula 1 this week. Denny Hulme opened the 1974 season with a win, capitalising on Reutemann’s Brabham slowing, and Andretti was dominant in 1978, winning in “smooth, unruffled style”.

The week began with news that Maria de Teresa de Filipis, the first woman to race in Formula 1, had died at the age of 89. In 2012, Rob Widdows met her to hear her stories. Giancarlo Fisichella, former F1 driver and double Le Mans class winner, celebrated his 43rd birthday, and fellow Roman – with five wins at La Sarthe to his name – Emanuele Pirro turned 54. Olivier Gendebien, one shy of Pirro, was also born this week in 1924.
Two of the biggest names in American motor racing history were born this week: Carroll Shelby was born 93 years ago, and American AJ Foyt 82. Also this week, Kazuki Nakajima turned 31, and Piero Taruffi passed away 28 years ago.
Every F1 driver number for the 2026 F1 season, including the inspiration behind their choices, the rules behind choosing numbers, and the ones that can’t be picked
The FIA defined clear new terminology for 2026 F1 as radical aero and power changes reshape the series
Formula 1's two-year return to Portimao may be less a long-term endorsement than a holding pattern, as the championship keeps calendar space open for future street races
Two Australian F1 drivers who came to Europe at the same time: one became world champion, the other faded from memory. But both Alan Jones and Brian McGuire have their place in racing history