Verstappen switches to #3 for 2026 after Ricciardo's approval

Max Verstappen will race with the number #3 from the 2026 Formula 1 season, adopting the digit long-associated with his former teammate Daniel Ricciardo. The change follows a recent rule revision and Ricciardo's personal approval, allowing Verstappen to finally use his favorite number after years of running #33 and the champion's #1.

Why it matters:

Driver numbers have become key personal brands in F1's modern era, making a permanent switch a significant move. Verstappen's adoption of #3, a number deeply tied to Ricciardo's popular identity, marks a symbolic passing of the torch and highlights the flexibility new regulations provide to drivers in shaping their legacy.

The details:

• Verstappen confirmed the switch in a Viaplay interview, stating, "My favourite number has always been 3, apart from number 1. We can now swap, so it’ll be number 3."
• He used #3 in his 2014 Florida Winter Series debut but chose #33 upon entering F1 in 2015, as Ricciardo had already established #3 on the grid.
• A recent rule change allows drivers to alter their permanent number assignment. However, Ricciardo, who retired in 2024, had to approve the early release of #3 for 2026 instead of 2027.
• Verstappen has used the champion's #1 for the past four seasons but will relinquish it after losing the 2025 title to Lando Norris.

By the numbers:

• #3: Used exclusively by Daniel Ricciardo from 2014 until his 2024 retirement. Now passed to Verstappen.
• #1: Will be used by 2025 champion Lando Norris in 2026, replacing his usual #4. Its use is optional for the title holder.
• #41: Assigned to rookie Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls) for 2026. It's a new number for the full-time grid, though used previously in FP1 sessions.

What's next:

The 2026 grid will feature several new number identities. Norris campaigning with #1 will be a visual reminder of the changed championship order, while Verstappen's #3 begins a new chapter for the digit. All eyes will be on how fans and the sport adapt to these shifts in a key element of driver branding.