Ricciardo Reveals When Verstappen Asked for His Number Three

Daniel Ricciardo has confirmed that Max Verstappen formally requested to take over the iconic number three during their meeting at the 2025 United States Grand Prix. The Australian driver, who retired from Formula 1 last year, expressed his happiness in passing the number to his former Red Bull teammate ahead of the 2026 regulation changes.

Why it matters:

The exchange of the number three symbolizes a passing of the torch between two of Red Bull's most popular modern-era drivers. For Verstappen, reclaiming a preferred digit after losing the number one following his 2025 title defeat adds a personal touch to his 2026 campaign, while Ricciardo's blessing reinforces the mutual respect that defined their partnership.

The details:

• The Austin Connection: Ricciardo confirmed that while he was in Austin for his Enchante lifestyle brand pop-up, Verstappen approached him about the number. Ricciardo called it a "cool story" for fans who supported them during their Red Bull tenure from 2016 to 2018.
• Regulatory Shift: The 2026 rule change was pivotal. Previously, drivers kept their numbers for life. Now, with Verstappen no longer the reigning champion after Lando Norris's 2025 success, he was free to drop the number one and select a new permanent digit.
• Ford Ambassador: Ricciardo’s retirement led to a strategic partnership with Ford. His presence at the season launch event alongside Verstappen highlights his continued integration into the Red Bull family ecosystem off the track.

Between the lines:

While Ricciardo has stepped away from the F1 grid, his competitive itch hasn't fully disappeared. He recently hinted at a potential future in off-road racing, specifically targeting the Baja 1000 event, suggesting that while his F1 chapter is closed, his racing journey may continue on a different terrain.