Ricciardo 'happy' to pass iconic #3 to Verstappen for 2026

Daniel Ricciardo has officially passed his iconic #3 to Max Verstappen for the 2026 F1 season, waiving the standard waiting period for a retired number in a gesture that underscores their lasting friendship. The Australian, now retired and a Ford ambassador, expressed no hesitation in allowing his former Red Bull teammate to adopt the digit, which Verstappen preferred over his old #33 after relinquishing the champion's #1.

Why it matters:

In a sport where driver numbers are deeply personal brands, this voluntary transfer breaks from standard protocol and serves as a public symbol of mutual respect between two of the sport's most popular figures. It connects Verstappen's future to a shared, explosive chapter in Red Bull's history, keeping a piece of Ricciardo's legacy active on the grid.

The details:

• The hand-off was agreed upon during a casual catch-up between the two drivers in Austin last year.
• Ricciardo waived the F1 rule that requires a number to be inactive for two seasons after a driver retires, allowing Verstappen immediate use.
• Verstappen sought a single-digit number after moving on from #1, which will be used by 2025 champion Lando Norris.
• Ricciardo cited the move as "a cool story" for fans who supported their time as teammates at Red Bull.
• Since retiring after the 2024 Singapore GP, Ricciardo has settled into a role as a global ambassador for Ford, stating he has found a new "pace and happiness" without the self-imposed pressure of driving.

What's next:

Verstappen will carry the #3 on his Red Bull RB22, creating a new chapter for the number. Ricciardo, meanwhile, remains connected to motorsport in his ambassador role, enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle that includes personal time and off-road adventures in his Ford Raptor. The number swap ensures a tangible link between the past and present of Red Bull Racing remains on track every race weekend.