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In an intriguing development for the upcoming Formula 1 season, Max Verstappen has announced that he will race with the number 3, allowing the newly crowned World Champion, Lando Norris, to take the prestigious number 1. This decision follows a closely contested title fight, where Norris secured his first championship by a slim margin of two points over Verstappen.
Verstappen entered Formula 1 in 2015 with Toro Rosso, driving car number 33. After winning the championship in 2025 against Lewis Hamilton, he earned the right to display the number 1, a symbol of his dominance during his four-year reign. With Norris now at the forefront, Verstappen will embrace the number 3, a choice that resonates deeply with him.
Verstappen’s affinity for number 3
Max Verstappen has chosen to adopt the number 3 for his racing career, moving away from his original number 33. In a recent interview with Viaplay, he shared that the number 3 has always been his favorite, second only to number 1. “It won’t be number 33. My favorite number has always been 3, apart from number 1. I just like one 3 better than two,” he explained. Verstappen added that he has often regarded the number 3 as representing double luck, yet he feels he has already experienced his share of fortune in Formula 1. This decision underscores the personal significance that racing numbers hold for drivers.
A nod to Daniel Ricciardo
The number 3 carries a notable legacy in the motorsport world, particularly linked to Verstappen’s former teammate, Daniel Ricciardo. Ricciardo, who raced alongside Verstappen at Red Bull from 2016 to 2018, helped to establish the number’s iconic status during his career. Following Ricciardo’s retirement from the sport in 2025, Verstappen secured the necessary permissions from both the FIA and Ricciardo to adopt this number for the upcoming season.
This transition signifies a shift in numbers and highlights the camaraderie and respect among drivers in Formula 1. As Verstappen begins this new chapter, fans can anticipate how he will honor the legacy of the number 3.
Significance of car numbers in Formula 1
Car numbers in Formula 1 represent more than just digits; they often hold deep significance for drivers and their supporters. Before the 2014 season, numbers were assigned based on the previous season’s standings. Since then, drivers have had the opportunity to choose their unique identifiers. The only exceptions are the number 1, reserved for the reigning World Champion, and the number 17, which has been retired in memory of Jules Bianchi.
This flexibility allows drivers to choose numbers that resonate with their personal history or bring them luck. For example, Sebastian Vettel reverted to number 5 after his championship reign, a number that symbolizes his early successes. Similarly, Nico Rosberg adopted number 6, which held significance for him due to family ties.
Historic number changes in F1
Over the years, many drivers have opted to race with numbers previously used by their peers. Notably, Jenson Button won the championship with number 22 while driving for Brawn GP. Later, Yuki Tsunoda embraced the same number as a tribute to Button. These instances illustrate how car numbers can become deeply intertwined with a driver’s identity and legacy.
As Max Verstappen approaches the 2026 season, he will don a new number on his car. The number 3 represents not only his competitive spirit but also his aspirations within the dynamic world of Formula 1. Observers will be keen to see how he embodies this symbol as he navigates the challenges ahead.