Verstappen Remains Mysterious on 2026 Car Number Choice
Max Verstappen is keeping his 2026 car number a mystery, should he lose his grip on the Drivers' Championship. Currently sporting the No. 1, he's considering a return to No. 33, potentially No. 3, and even revealed his father vetoed his idea of using No. 69. His choice will mark a significant personal shift from his championship reign.
Max Verstappen has kept fans and media guessing about his potential 2026 car number, should he not retain the Drivers' Championship. Currently running the coveted No. 1, Verstappen will be forced to revert to a personal number if he misses out on the 2025 title, teasing several options while remaining coy about a final decision.
Why it matters:
- Max Verstappen's car number has become a symbol of his championship reign, and his choice for 2026 will mark a shift from the No. 1 plate he's carried for three seasons.
- The decision carries sentimental and branding weight for a driver who has dominated the sport, hinting at his personality and perhaps future aspirations.
The details:
- Verstappen is required to give up the No. 1 plate if he doesn't win the 2025 Drivers' Championship, marking an end to his three-season run with it.
- He has openly teased a possible return to his original No. 33, a switch to No. 3, and even briefly considered No. 69.
- No. 69 Consideration: Verstappen revealed he felt No. 69 would look visually appealing on the car and for marketing.
- Father's Veto: His father, Jos Verstappen, discouraged the choice of No. 69, insisting it 'would not be a good choice.'
- When pressed during the Las Vegas Grand Prix about his 2026 number, Verstappen stated, "I'm considering a lot of options at the moment," and added, "No. I'll let you know when I make my decision."
- Since his Formula 1 debut in 2015, Verstappen raced with No. 33 until he won his first title in 2021, subsequently adopting the champion's No. 1.
What's next:
Verstappen's final decision will likely come much closer to the 2026 season, potentially after the conclusion of the 2025 championship. Until then, fans and media will continue to speculate on which number he will choose, reflecting on his career journey and personal preferences.