First-time world champion Lando Norris will proudly display the number 1 on his McLaren in 2026. The 26-year-old Briton did not hesitate for a second before confirming his choice. "The number 1 on the world champion's car is a tradition. A driver has worked hard to earn it." ."I'm not just wearing it for myself, but for the whole McLaren team. We are champions, and we want to show it to the whole world," said Norris. Stripped of his champion number which he had worn since 2022, Max Verstappen revealed that he would not return to 33, but rather coveted his lucky number: number 3.
Max Verstappen wants to change his number… but not back to 33
In Las Vegas, Max Verstappen surprised the entire paddock by revealing his intention not to return to his historic number, 33, used between 2015 and 2021.
"I'll think about it more closely this winter. But my favorite number is 3," the three-time world champion confided.
"I wanted 69, but my father wasn't convinced... even though, for marketing, it's an incredible number!"
The Dutchman also mentioned the 27th worn by Nico Hulkenberg but his choice clearly falls on number 3, that of Daniel Ricardo.
Problem: the settlement of the FIA prevents the assignment of a number if it has been used in the previous two seasons. The number 3 only disappeared from the grid after the last Grand Prix of Daniel Ricciardo in 2024.
Theoretically, the issue would therefore not be available before 2027.
This rule currently also applies Valtteri Bottas (77) et Sergio Pérez (11), who will return in 2026 with Cadillac but keep their number reserved.
Good news for Max: The F1 Commission recently amended the text, introducing a crucial exception.
The number can now be reassigned if its former owner explicitly waives this right.
In other words, a simple solution is emerging:
Max Verstappen
can get number 3… if Daniel Ricciardo
agrees to abandon him. Max only has to pick up his phone to call his former teammate.
Daniel Ricciardo has long explained his attachment to this iconic number. That was my first starting number in karting. " the Australian recounted.
« And I've always thought that Dale Earnhardt He was great. He also drove with the number 3. »
The next issue of Max Verstappen now depends on a simple conversation with
Daniel Ricardo.
If the Australian accepts, 2026 could mark the return of number 3 to the grid — but this time in the car of the three-time world champion.
