Why is 17 not allowed in F1?
Drivers were initially allowed to choose any number from 2 through 99; number 1 is reserved for the World Drivers’ Champion. The number 17 was retired in 2015 as a mark of respect to Jules Bianchi, who died that year from injuries sustained in a crash at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix while carrying the number. Currently, drivers are allowed to pick their own number for their career from 0, 2 through 99.What Numbers Are Allowed in Formula 1? Drivers can choose any number between 2 and 99, except: Number 1 – Reserved for the reigning world champion (optional).