Ricciardo Happy to Hand Over Number 3 to Verstappen

Daniel Ricciardo has revealed that he was "very, very happy" to allow Max Verstappen to adopt his iconic race number 3 starting in 2026. The Australian driver explained that he eagerly agreed to the request during a meeting in Austin to ensure his former teammate wouldn't have to wait another year to make the switch.

Why it matters:

Race numbers in Formula 1 are deeply tied to a driver's identity, and Ricciardo's No. 3 is one of the most recognizable on the grid. This handover signifies a passing of the torch between two generations of Red Bull stars and offers a nostalgic nod to the fans who supported them during their time as teammates.

The details:

• The Austin Agreement: Ricciardo told GQ Sports that the conversation took place when they caught up recently. When Verstappen mentioned he wanted to take the number three, Ricciardo immediately consented.
• Avoiding the Wait: A key factor in Ricciardo's decision was timing. He noted that had he declined, Verstappen would have been forced to wait another year before claiming the number, as he is set to lose the No. 1 plate in 2026.
• A Nod to the Fans: Ricciardo views the exchange as a "cool story" for the F1 community. He emphasized that it connects the current era with the past for supporters who followed both drivers during their partnership at Red Bull.

Between the lines:

The friendly exchange highlights the enduring mutual respect between the two drivers despite their diverging career paths. Their camaraderie was recently on display during a filming session for Ford, where Ricciardo jokingly invited Verstappen to his hotel room to watch a movie, prompting the Dutchman to quip that they should "make The Hangover 4" instead.

What's next:

While Ricciardo prepares to step away from the number he has made famous, he remains active in the sport as a brand ambassador. Verstappen is expected to debut the number 3 in the 2026 season, marking a new chapter in his dominant career.