Lando Norris to Use No. 1 in 2026, Verstappen Reverts to No. 3
Lando Norris will sport the number 1 on his McLaren in 2026 as the defending champion, while dethroned rival Max Verstappen switches back to number 3. The official entry list also confirms F2 graduate Arvid Lindblad's promotion to a full-time seat with Racing Bulls.
Lando Norris will carry the prestigious number one on his McLaren in 2026 as the reigning world champion, while Max Verstappen will switch back to his familiar number three. The changes are part of the official 2026 entry list, which also confirms Arvid Lindblad's promotion to Racing Bulls alongside Liam Lawson.
Why it matters:
The number on a car is a key piece of identity in Formula 1. Norris adopting the number one is a symbolic and hard-earned right for a first-time champion, marking a new era for the McLaren driver. Verstappen's return to number three, after years of using number one, signals a reset and a renewed challenge. For Lindblad, a number change is the least of his concerns as he makes a rapid jump from Formula 2 to a full-time F1 seat.
The details:
- Norris's New Identity: By winning the 2025 drivers' championship, Lando Norris has earned the right to replace his permanent number 4 with the number 1 for the 2026 season, a tradition for the reigning titleholder.
- Verstappen's Reset: Having been dethroned, Max Verstappen will no longer use the number one. He will revert to his original career number, 3, utilizing a rule that allows a one-time number change for drivers who have used number one.
- Lindblad's Debut: The 2026 entry list formalizes the promotion of Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad. The British driver will partner Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls (VCARB) after just one season in Formula 2.
- Russell's Off-Season: Separately, George Russell is enjoying the post-season break. The Mercedes team leader, who won two races in 2025, was spotted skiing with his partner, Carmen Montero Mundt, marking a relaxed start to the winter.
What's next:
The number changes are now official for the 2026 grid. All eyes will be on Norris to see how he handles the pressure of defending a title with the symbolic '1' on his car, while Verstappen will aim to reclaim it. For Lindblad, the focus shifts to preparing for his rookie F1 campaign with pre-season testing still months away.