Is number 69 allowed in F1?
Currently, drivers are allowed to pick their own number for their career from 0, 2 through 99. Only the World Champion is allowed to use number 1. This number cannot be reallocated unless the driver has not driven in the sport for two seasons, with the exception of the number 1. Why is number 17 banned in F1? As a tribute to Jules Bianchi, who tragically lost his life in a crash in 2014, car number 17 remains retired from Formula 1. Add the 2026 F1 calendar to your agenda with one click!Yes, 13 is allowed. In fact, Pastor Maldonado used #13 when the permanent number system began in 2014. Though often considered unlucky in some cultures, F1 left the choice to the drivers.
Why is Lamborghini not in F1?
Lamborghini isn’t in F1 because it doesn’t fit their business strategy or VW Group’s brand “lane assignments. The cost/complexity of modern hybrid F1 power units is massive, road-relevance is limited for a V12 hybrid supercar maker, and the Group already designated other brands (Audi/Porsche) for F1. As of mid-2025, the company has no intention of joining F1—due to brand strategy, cost concerns, and existing VW Group participation via Audi and Porsche. Instead, Lamborghini is fully committed to endurance racing (LMDh) and expanding its presence in IMSA and WEC .Lamborghini isn’t in F1 because it doesn’t fit their business strategy or VW Group’s brand “lane assignments. The cost/complexity of modern hybrid F1 power units is massive, road-relevance is limited for a V12 hybrid supercar maker, and the Group already designated other brands (Audi/Porsche) for F1.
Why is Audi not in F1?
Jonathan Wheatley has explained that Audi is not in support of F1 readopting V8 engines, as concerns over the next generation of power units fester in the paddock. The Stake team principal will continue to lead the former Sauber entry as it transforms into the aforementioned German car giant for the 2026 season. The intention was to reach an engine and team partnership, based on equal footing but the negotiations never came to fruition. In March 2023, Porsche announced that they will not be joining Formula 1 in 2026.Gabriel Bortoleto He is racing alongside Nico Hülkenberg for Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber during 2025, which will transform into the Audi F1 factory team in 2026.Audi confirmed in mid-2022 that it would enter Formula 1 for the first time in 2026, as Sauber’s strategic partner. It took majority ownership in 2024. Sauber finished last in 2024 but since a major car update in June, it has moved to eighth place, with 45 points across the last seven Grands Prix.
Why can’t Porsche join F1?
It could not offer its own engine, for example, and it has other motorsport programmes so in terms of personnel and facilities, the existing F1 team it was joining forces with would be providing the bulk of the infrastructure and human resource. That’s why a Red Bull deal was perfect for Porsche. Porsche has officially ruled out a return to Formula 1 after the failure of its partnership with Red Bull. Initially planned for the 2026 season, the German brand is now concentrating on its other motorsport programs, notably endurance racing and Formula E, where it is already enjoying great success.