Verstappen set to race using number 3 in 2026

Four time F1 World Champion Max Verstappen will change his racing number in 2026, surrendering the number 1 to new Champion Lando Norris. Verstappen will change to race under the number 3.

The 3 was last used by Daniel Ricciardo, during his F1 career, with the number used on his car from 2014, when the rule allowing drivers to pick their own number was introduced. Previously, numbers were allocated by championship position.

📸Ricciardo celebrates in Monaco.

Before gaining World Champion status, Verstappen raced with the number 33 - as 3 was taken - and stating that perhaps two threes would bring him “double luck” and that the 33 “looked cool”. “Double luck” certainly found it’s way to the Dutchman as he became champion in 2021 - using the 33.

📸Verstappen taking it all in after his 2021 title win.

However, with Ricciardo retired, Verstappen confirmed to Viaplay; "It won’t be the number 33. My favorite number has always been 3, apart from the number 1. Now we can switch. It will be the number 3."

📸Verstappen with the 3 in karts.

📸Image credits: Formula Motorsport Limited, Max Verstappen.