Confirmed Driver Numbers for the 2026 F1 Season
Lando Norris will run the #1 as defending champion in 2026, while Max Verstappen makes a notable switch to #3 under new regulations allowing a one-time number change. Lewis Hamilton and the rest of the grid maintain their established numbers, with rookie Arvid Lindblad taking #41.
The full roster of driver numbers for the 2026 Formula 1 season has been confirmed, featuring a notable change for Max Verstappen. With Lando Norris winning the 2025 championship, the right to use the prestigious #1 passes to the McLaren driver for his title defense. Verstappen, no longer the reigning champion, has opted not to return to his old #33, instead seizing a new opportunity under updated regulations to claim the #3 for his Red Bull campaign.
Why it matters:
Driver numbers have become key personal brands in the modern F1 era, representing a driver's identity on and off the track. A change, especially for a star like Verstappen, signals a new chapter and highlights the subtle yet symbolic shifts within the sport's competitive landscape as regulations evolve.
The Details:
- Norris Claims #1: As the 2025 world champion, Lando Norris will use #1 throughout the 2026 season. His permanent number, #4, will be frozen and unavailable to other drivers for the duration of his championship reign.
- Verstappen's Strategic Switch: Max Verstappen has chosen #3 for 2026, a number he has long favored but was previously held by Daniel Ricciardo since 2014. New sporting regulations for 2026 allow drivers one opportunity to change their permanent number, which Verstappen has utilized.
- Hamilton's Consistency: Lewis Hamilton remains the most consistent, sticking with #44 for his 20th season in F1 and his second year with Ferrari. He has never raced with #1 as a reigning champion, preferring his iconic personal number.
- The Grid's Stability: Beyond Verstappen, the rest of the grid shows remarkable stability. The only rookie, Arvid Lindblad at Racing Bulls, will carry #41.
The Big Picture:
The confirmation of numbers solidifies the lineup for a pivotal season ahead of major 2026 regulation changes. While most numbers remain constant, Verstappen's move to #3 is a symbolic reset, distancing himself from his recent championship era (#1) and his early career number (#33). It underscores how drivers use these identifiers to craft their narrative within the sport.
What's next:
With driver numbers set, focus now shifts entirely to pre-season testing and car launches. The numbers will become a familiar sight as teams unveil their 2026 challengers, marking the final visual piece of the puzzle before the new season's competitive order begins to take shape on track.