Verstappen and Norris Confirm 2026 Race Numbers, Grid Largely Unchanged

Max Verstappen will race with the number 3 in 2026, while new world champion Lando Norris will adopt the iconic number 1. The rest of the grid sees minimal changes, with most drivers retaining their familiar numbers for the upcoming season.

Why it matters:

Race numbers are a key part of a driver's identity and brand in Formula 1. Verstappen's switch to his preferred number and Norris's adoption of the champion's number 1 mark significant personal and symbolic shifts for two of the sport's biggest stars, even as the wider grid remains stable.

The details:

• Verstappen's Choice: After relinquishing his title, the four-time champion confirmed he will race with the number 3, a number he has stated is his favourite and was previously used by Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull.
• Norris's New Badge: The newly crowned 2025 world champion will carry the number 1 on his McLaren, a privilege and tradition for the reigning title holder.
• Top Driver Stability: Other leading drivers will retain their iconic numbers: Lewis Hamilton (#44), Charles Leclerc (#16), George Russell (#63), and Oscar Piastri (#81).
• Iconic Returns: Sergio Pérez's #11 and Valtteri Bottas's #77 will return to the grid, representing the new Cadillac team in its official F1 debut.
• The Rookie: The only confirmed rookie for 2026, Arvid Lindblad, will make his debut with the #41 for Racing Bulls.

The big picture:

The 2026 grid numbers reflect a period of relative stability in driver line-ups. With only one confirmed rookie and most established drivers staying put, the focus shifts to how teams like the new Cadillac entry and drivers in new roles, like Verstappen without the #1, will perform under the next set of technical regulations. The consistency in numbers provides continuity for fans, with the notable exceptions of the top two drivers from 2025 signaling a new chapter for both.