Ricciardo reacts to Verstappen adopting his old number 3
Max Verstappen will race with number 3 in 2025, his old teammate Daniel Ricciardo's former number. A behind-the-scenes video captured Ricciardo's amused, French-quipping reaction to the switch, highlighting their camaraderie. The change comes as Lando Norris takes over the champion's number 1.
Daniel Ricciardo had a characteristically witty reaction upon seeing his old race number, 3, emblazoned on Max Verstappen's cap for the 2025 season. The moment, captured in a behind-the-scenes Red Bull video, highlights the friendly dynamic between the former teammates as Verstappen makes a symbolic number switch after losing the World Champion's number 1 to Lando Norris.
Why it matters:
A driver's number is a key part of their identity in Formula 1. Verstappen's choice to adopt Ricciardo's old number, rather than reverting to his original 33, is a nod to their shared history at Red Bull and adds a personal layer to the season's narrative. It underscores the sport's human elements and the enduring connections between drivers beyond fierce on-track rivalry.
The details:
- The interaction occurred during filming ahead of the RB22 car launch. Verstappen noticed Ricciardo looking at his cap and promptly held it up to the camera to show the number 3.
- Ricciardo reacted by quipping "C'est magnifique!" (It's magnificent!) in French, sparking laughter from Verstappen and others present.
- Verstappen is switching from number 1 after losing the world championship crown for the first time in four years. The number 1 now passes to Lando Norris, who won the 2024 title in Abu Dhabi.
- Separately, Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner recently shared a light-hearted story about Ricciardo's hidden talent, recalling how he once persuaded the Australian to sing at a team Christmas party—a moment Horner jokes Ricciardo "never forgave him for."
- Horner also praised Ricciardo's character and driving ability, suggesting that with the right car, he had the potential to become a world champion.
What's next:
The number switch will be a visible change for Verstappen throughout the 2025 season. For Ricciardo, the moment serves as a fond reminder of his past at Red Bull as he continues his F1 career with his current team. The story adds a layer of personality to the upcoming season, where the on-track focus will be on whether Norris can defend his number 1 and if Verstappen can reclaim it with his new-old identifier.