World Champion Lewis Hamilton has brought the number 1 back to Formula 1 after a four-year absence at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Hamilton has used 44 as his permanent number since the revised scheme was introduced ahead of the 2014 campaign.
World Champions have the option to use the number 1 – which Sebastian Vettel took up in 2014 – but Hamilton has retained 44 in his title-defending campaigns in 2015, 2016 and 2018.
Hamilton wrapped up the 2018 title at last month’s Mexican Grand Prix, with his fifth title drawing him level with Juan Manuel Fangio, and behind only Michael Schumacher on the all-time list.
Hamilton appeared on track during Friday practice for the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix sporting a gold helmet, with the red number 1 attached in place of his usual 44.
Hamilton’s engine cover still carried number 44 while he is officially entered into this weekend’s event under his usual number, meaning 44 will be used on timing screens and graphics, as per usual.
Mercedes confirmed that “Lewis has requested and been given permission to run number 1 on the nose at this final race of the season because he’s World Champion.”
Mercedes ia slao assessing Hamilton's engine during FP1 after the problem that affected his race at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The team revealed that a "failure in the variable inlet system caused unstable combustion" and that hardware changes have been made, with the engine (PU3) being trialled today; data will be reviewed following Friday evening's second session.
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