43: Why Did Franco Choose It?

The story behind the number that defines his identity on track

Published

20 Nov 2025

Est. reading time

2 min

⭐ Numbers That Tell Stories in F1

In Formula 1, a number is never just a number. Some of us pick a lucky number for a jersey, our birthdate, or the one our idol uses.

Each driver carries one throughout their career, often as a tribute

Since 2014, drivers can choose a permanent number between 2 and 99, opening the door to choices full of personal meaning.

For Latin Americans, there’s always a way to support each other. One example is Checo Pérez, who uses 11 in tribute to former Chilean footballer Iván Zamorano, whom he admired from a young age.

Other drivers also have meaningful stories behind their numbers: Hamilton keeps 44 from his karting days, Ocon chose 31 because of the kart that led him to glory, and Verstappen uses 33 because his favourite, 3, was already taken.

🇦🇷 And then there’s 43, a unique number in Formula 1 history

A number that had never appeared in a Grand Prix… until he arrived.

The Origin of 43: A Family Tribute

For Franco, 43 is no coincidence. He has carried it since karting because it was the number his father, Aníbal Colapinto, used in Turismo Nacional. That 43 was his first emotional link to racing and has accompanied him through every category he competed in.

When he reached Formula 1, 43 was completely free. Franco made it his own and turned it into a new symbol.

It’s a unique number in F1 history: - It had never appeared on an official grid. - It didn’t belong to any historic team. - It carried no previous superstitions or legacies.

43 Belongs to the Community, Too

For thousands of fans, 43 is no longer just his number: it’s a banner, an icon, and a source of pride. We see it on posters, profiles, illustrations, and even tattoos. This weekend, we want to show Franco exactly where we see 43 before the Las Vegas race.

👉 Leave Your Mark for #FranClub43

Send us anything featuring the number 43: - Links to posts or illustrations - Screenshots where Franco’s number appears

[FORM]

Everything will be part of the Fran Club Hub, the special page where Franco will see your support before heading out on track:

Centro del Fran Club

¡Participa en los últimos concursos, descarga los fondos de pantalla más recientes y obtén tus coleccionables!

🩵 43 Is Already Part of History

It was born in the family, grew up in karting, and today lives in Formula 1. It represents identity, tribute, and community. And the best part: it’s only just beginning.

Keep supporting 43 all week by being part of the community and sharing the message 😉

Join the Family!

Use the link below to sign up for your own profile card and become part of the Franco family!

Join Now

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