Verstappen Could Join Schumacher in Exclusive Club with Number 3 in 2026

If Max Verstappen switches his car number to 3 for the 2026 Formula 1 season, he would join an exclusive club of just three drivers who have won the world championship with that number: Graham Hill (1962), Jacques Villeneuve (1997), and Michael Schumacher (2000). The Dutchman's 71 career wins already surpass the combined total of all drivers who have raced with the number 3 on their car.

Why it matters:

A number change for a driver of Verstappen's stature is more than cosmetic; it's a symbolic gesture loaded with history. Adopting the number 3 would connect him directly to a legacy of champions, most notably Michael Schumacher, whose 2000 title with Ferrari marked the beginning of his dominant era. For Verstappen, who has raced with number 33 and then number 1, choosing 3 could signal a new chapter and an ambition to carve his own path within that historic numeric lineage.

The details:

• The number 3 has a mixed record in the 21st century. While Schumacher won his third title with it in 2000, other champions who later used the number—including Mika Häkkinen, Jenson Button, Kimi Räikkönen, and Lewis Hamilton—never finished higher than fifth in the standings during their seasons with it.
• Since the introduction of permanent driver numbers in 2014, Daniel Ricciardo has been its primary custodian. Before that, the number was assigned based on the previous season's constructors' championship order, leading to its rotation among various teams.
• Fernando Alonso delivered the number's best modern result without a title in 2013, finishing a distant second to Sebastian Vettel while driving for Ferrari.

The big picture:

Verstappen's potential number switch intersects with a pivotal moment in F1's technical regulations, set for 2026. Changing a core identifier like his car number as he embarks on a new regulatory cycle could be a powerful statement of intent and renewal. It underscores how drivers often use symbolism—whether through helmet designs, personal logos, or numbers—to define eras of their careers and connect with the sport's past.

What's next:

The speculation hinges on Verstappen's final decision, expected before the 2026 season. If he proceeds, every race with the number 3 on his Red Bull (or any other car) will invite comparisons to Schumacher's legacy. More than just a digit on a car, it would become a narrative touchpoint, adding a layer of historical pursuit to Verstappen's quest for further championships in the coming years.