Hamilton not #1?

[Jericoke]

I don't know why I hadn't noticed earlier, but Hamilton has been using #44 (his 'personal number') this season, instead of the #1 he is entitled to use.

While I'm personally a fan of the assigned numbers, I am curious why a WDC wouldn't want that #1.  There is no greater symbol of respect that can be earned in the world of sport. 

(Don't get me wrong, there are plenty of equal, or even greater titles, but Usain Bolt doesn't race wearing his gold medals, Rodriguez or Muller aren't on the pitch sporting their golden boots)

[F1fanaticBD]

I have seen Valentino Rossi not giving up his famous 46 after multiple championship, and I also think it improves his branding image as 44..

[Scott]

I agree BD.  It's just a sticker after all.  Not as if he goes around pulling people over to his car to make them admire the pretty number one or anything.

[Jericoke]

I can certainly guess why (I'd even wonder if Hammy was the one who suggested it), but I was wondering if anyone had heard anything?

Surely given the F1 press is so gifted at making a mountain out of a molehill someone somewhere has asked this question?

[Alianora La Canta]

It was Lewis' idea, because he considers #44 to mean more to him than #1. I haven't seen any member of the media object to this reasoning in any way.

[cosworth151]

As Ali just said, it was his idea. He says that he has used that number since his karting days.

He said that his pantomime baseball swing after winning Bahrain was a tribute to another famous #44, Hammerin' Hank Aaron.

[lkjohnson1950]

Saw Hank Aaron play in spring training in Scottsdale too long ago to even think about. he spent a considerable amount of time signing autographs before and after the game as well. Class gentleman. bary Bonds couldn't carry his equipment bag, he is not worthy.

[Jericoke]

It was Lewis' idea, because he considers #44 to mean more to him than #1. I haven't seen any member of the media object to this reasoning in any way.

Sorry, I meant to suggest that personal numbers as a whole was Lewis's idea, not the choice to retain 44 when he's entitled to 1  (obviously that was his choice)

I am surprised that given the history of #1 in motorsports someone at some point must have at least questioned a champion eschewing such a long standing tradition.  I even remember debates on this very board against the idea of drivers retaining a number.

[John S]

Call me old fashioned but the No 1 has been earned and is awarded for the simple reason of attaining the championship and should therefore be used.

They really should have inserted a clause that the No 1 must be used, unless of course the driver has retired or does not take part for any other reason. I mean why bother reserving the No 1 if they don't use it?     

[Scott]

Na, that sounds too much like a rule just for the sake of having a rule.  I can't read the number on TV whether it's 44 or 1, so who really cares?

[lkjohnson1950]

I am a bit tired of Lewis and his perpetual fixation with "branding".

[Jericoke]

Na, that sounds too much like a rule just for the sake of having a rule.  I can't read the number on TV whether it's 44 or 1, so who really cares?

Yes, but younger eyes can...

Which drivers do you think would stick by their number, and which would switch to #1?

Obviously Vettel would switch to 1.   I'm sure Alonso would too.  Probably Kimi, but it depends on how much trouble is involved.

[Scott]

I don't think Kimi would really care of the ones you mention.  But you are probably right Lonny, nobody takes branding more seriously than Lewis.  Somebody has talked a good talk to him, but I don't think he will become the next Beckham or anything.  He'll make more money lending his name to F1 sponsors than anything else.

[Alianora La Canta]

Kimi has the number he has because he couldn't be bothered to pick a different one from the one he had the previous system. His dislike of change makes me think he'd stick with #1.

[cosworth151]

I think the majority of drivers would take the #1. Certainly any first time WDC would wear it proudly.