Key Points
- Max Verstappen will race with car number 3 in the 2026 F1 season.
- The change follows Lando Norris’ narrow 2025 championship win by just two points.
- Verstappen chose No. 3 over his original No. 33, calling it his “favorite number.”
- The number was previously used by former teammate Daniel Ricciardo, who approved the switch.
- FIA has officially authorized Verstappen’s new race number.
Verstappen Begins a New Chapter After Losing the 2025 Title
Max Verstappen is set to debut a new racing identity in 2026. The three‑time World Champion has confirmed he will compete with car number 3, marking a symbolic shift after losing the 2025 championship to McLaren’s Lando Norris.
Norris clinched the title by finishing third at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, edging Verstappen by a razor‑thin margin of two points and ending his four‑season reign as World Champion.
From No. 33 to No. 1 — and Now to No. 3
Verstappen entered Formula 1 in 2015 with Toro Rosso, racing under number 33. His breakthrough came in 2021, when he secured his first World Championship and adopted number 1, a privilege reserved for the reigning champion.
After four consecutive titles, Verstappen could have returned to No. 33 for 2026. Instead, he opted for a more personal choice.
Speaking to Viaplay, he explained: “It won’t be number 33. My favorite number has always been 3, apart from number 1. Number 33 was always fine, but I just like one 3 better than two.”
A Nod to Ricciardo — and a Lifelong Dream
The number carries added significance: it was previously used by Daniel Ricciardo, Verstappen’s former Red Bull teammate from 2016 to 2018. Ricciardo, who retired after the 2024 season, gave his blessing for Verstappen to take over the number.
The FIA has formally approved the change, clearing the way for Verstappen to race with No. 3 next year.
Verstappen described the switch as a “lifelong dream,” adding that the number symbolizes “double luck”—even though he admits he has already enjoyed plenty of good fortune in his F1 career.
What Happens Next?
With a new number and renewed motivation, Verstappen now turns his focus to reclaiming the championship in 2026. As teams prepare for the next era of Formula 1 regulations, all eyes will be on how the former champion adapts—and whether No. 3 marks the beginning of another dominant chapter.
