Why is number 17 banned in F1?
Jules Bianchi’s number 17 was permanently retired after his tragic 2014 crash and death in 2015. His death led to major F1 safety reforms, including the Virtual Safety Car and the halo device. Number 17 is the only officially retired F1 number; others like 0 are restricted by rule. However, not all numbers in F1 carry joyful associations. The number 17, once worn by Jules Bianchi, holds a somber place in the sport’s history. During the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix, Bianchi suffered a tragic accident while racing with this number at Suzuka.F1 drivers are allowed to choose a number between 2 and 99, which remain theirs for the duration of their career in the sport.F1 Driver Number Rules Choosing a number: Each driver has the opportunity to choose a permanent number between 2 and 99, excluding 17, that they can use throughout their F1 career. The number 17 is not used as a mark of respect following the death of Jules Bianchi, who carried that number throughout his F1 career.Yes, 13 is allowed. In fact, Pastor Maldonado used #13 when the permanent number system began in 2014. Though often considered unlucky in some cultures, F1 left the choice to the drivers.