F1 Drivers Can Now Change Race Numbers; Lando Norris Breaks Schumacher's Record

Formula 1 has introduced a significant rule change allowing drivers to request new race numbers from the 2026 season, marking the first time such changes are permitted since permanent numbers were introduced in 2014. This change particularly impacts drivers like Lewis Hamilton, whose iconic '44' has been deeply integrated into his brand and charitable efforts. Simultaneously, Lando Norris has made history by becoming the first driver to win his opening 11 Grands Prix at 11 different circuits, surpassing a long-standing record held by Michael Schumacher.

Why it matters:

• Driver Identity and Brand: The ability to change numbers offers drivers more flexibility in their personal branding and potentially allows them to align their race numbers with new chapters in their careers or significant milestones. For Lewis Hamilton, whose '44' is tied to his charity Mission 44 and merchandise brand PLUS 44, this rule change presents a unique decision point for his future identity in F1.
• Historical Records: Lando Norris's achievement highlights a remarkable run of form and adaptability, winning at a diverse range of circuits. Breaking a record held by a legend like Michael Schumacher underscores Norris's growing stature in the sport and McLaren's competitive progress.

The details:

• Hamilton's Number 44: Lewis Hamilton adopted the number 44 from his first go-kart's license plate. It has become a cornerstone of his identity, reflected in his charity Mission 44 (launched in 2021, supporting disadvantaged youth in motorsport, with £8 million in grants awarded to 42 partners alongside Mercedes’ Ignite initiative) and his merchandise brand PLUS 44.
• New Number Rule: The F1 Commission confirmed that drivers can request number changes starting in 2026. Prior to this, driver numbers were fixed permanently from the 2014 season onward.
• Norris's Record-Breaking Wins: Lando Norris achieved a new F1 record at the Brazil GP by winning his opening 11 Grands Prix at 11 different circuits. This surpasses Michael Schumacher's previous record of 10 wins at 10 separate tracks between 1992 and 1994.
• Norris's Win Progression: His maiden victory was at the 2024 Miami GP, followed by wins in the Netherlands, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi that same season. In 2025, driving the MCL39, he added seven more victories, each at a different venue.
• Schumacher's Original Record: Schumacher's streak began with his first win at the 1992 Belgian GP, continued with the 1993 Portuguese GP, and expanded with eight wins in Benetton's dominant 1994 campaign. His run of unique circuit wins ended when he repeated his Interlagos victory at the 1995 Brazil GP.

What's next:

• The F1 community will be keen to see if Lewis Hamilton chooses to alter his number in 2026, considering its deep personal and professional significance. Any change would be a major talking point as he embarks on his new chapter with Ferrari.
• Lando Norris's continued performance will be closely watched to see how many more unique circuit victories he can accumulate, further cementing his place in F1 history.