Classic case of the SUN getting it wrong again.

2012 they will display 7 up, with 9 flying for major events
2013 they will be back up to 9 for the whole season.

The official reason (as i'm led to believe) is a pilot was called up for service.

I'm sure there is someone around who will give the full version. But take the sun article with a pinch of salt as always.