F1 clears path for driver number changes; Hamilton’s famed 44 faces surprise twist?
Photo: Race Pictures
Updated: 22:21, 16 Nov 2025
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A filmmaker with a soft spot for Ronnie Peterson, Gilles Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and above all, Tazio Nuvolari and Ayrton Senna, is also a diehard Formula One fan since the age of 4 (mid-90's). An avid researcher of the past of Grand Prix Racing since before it was even named F1, and with a thirst for knowledge of the ins and outs of the actuality of the sport, as well as for the technical aspects that define it, is a member of GPblog since 2023, where he has put his love of racing to good use.
The F1 Commission findings revealed that drivers now have the opportunity to request to change their racing numbers.
Photo: Race Pictures
Previously, drivers could not change their racing numbers as they were deemed permanent ahead of the 2014 season.
This means drivers like Lewis Hamilton could potentially switch from his iconic 44 number to something completely different.
Hamilton has used the number 44 since he began his career, first adopting the number as it featured on the licence plate of the first go-kart he received from his father.
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The number has followed him through his Formula 1 career as well as his philanthropic work, with the seven-time world champion starting the fund 'Mission 44.'
Hamilton founded the charity Mission 44 in 2021, aiming to help young people from disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds make their way in motorsport.
The charity was partnered with Mercedes' foundation Ignite, which also aims to increase diversity and opportunities in motorsport.
Since its conception, Mission 44 has awarded £8 million in grants for young people's education and funded 42 partners.
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44 also features in Hamilton's 'PLUS 44' brand that he created to sell his own merchandise.
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