Verstappen Reveals Permanent F1 Number Change

By John Pranay (Editor)

A long-held secret has finally been confirmed: Max Verstappen will be relinquishing his iconic number 1 jersey in the 2026 Formula 1 season, opting for a new number that holds a special place in his heart. The Dutch driver, who has been associated with the number 1 since 2022, will be switching to number 3, a digit previously made famous by Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull. This change comes on the heels of Lando Norris's recent world championship win, which has given him the right to wear the coveted number 1.

Max Verstappen's decision to change his number is not a surprise, given his close association with the number 1 since 2022. However, the choice of number 3 is an interesting one, as it was previously worn by Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull. The Dutch driver has stated that he prefers the single digit 3 to the double 33, citing it as a cleaner and simpler option. This change is part of a larger shake-up at Red Bull, with Isack Hadjar set to join Verstappen as his teammate in 2026, and Yuki Tsunoda moving to a reserve role.

• 2015: Max Verstappen debuts in F1 with number 33.

• 2021: Verstappen wins his maiden world championship and switches to number 1.

• 2022: Verstappen begins racing with number 1.

• 2024: Daniel Ricciardo leaves F1 and number 3 becomes available.

• 2025: Lando Norris wins the world championship, giving him the right to wear number 1.

• 2026: Verstappen confirms he will be switching to number 3.

The change in Verstappen's number may seem like a minor detail, but it reflects a larger trend in F1. With the increasing popularity of the sport, drivers are becoming more invested in their personal brands, and their numbers are becoming an integral part of that. Verstappen's decision to switch to number 3 is a nod to his own personal preferences, but it also reflects the changing landscape of the sport. As F1 continues to evolve, we can expect to see more drivers taking control of their own branding and personalizing their numbers.

The change in Verstappen's number may have a ripple effect on the sport, with other drivers potentially following suit. However, there are also risks associated with this change, such as the potential for confusion among fans and the impact on sponsorship deals. Additionally, the change may also lead to a shift in the way drivers are perceived by fans and sponsors, with some potentially viewing it as a sign of instability or a lack of commitment to their team.

The change in Verstappen's number is set to take place in 2026, with the Dutch driver expected to make his debut with number 3 at the opening round of the season. However, the exact date of the change has not been confirmed, and fans will have to wait until then to see Verstappen's new number in action. In the meantime, the focus will be on the upcoming season, with many expecting a fierce battle for the championship between Verstappen and his new teammate, Isack Hadjar.

The pace of change in F1 is accelerating, with drivers and teams constantly evolving and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the sport. Verstappen's decision to switch to number 3 is a prime example of this, as he seeks to personalize his brand and differentiate himself from his competitors. However, this change also raises questions about the role of numbers in F1, and whether they are becoming too important in the sport. As F1 continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how drivers and teams navigate this complex issue, and whether the number 3 will become the new iconic number of the sport.

On balance, this event screens as Neutral in our sentiment view.

1. Verstappen says goodbye to #1 - and hello to a long-held 'favorite' — https://f1i.com/news/556487-verstappen-says-goodbye-to-1-and-hello-to-a-long-held-favorite.html

Methodology: This analysis combines real-time data aggregation from manually selected global sources with advanced AI synthesis, engineered to provide neutral and data-driven insights.