Max Verstappen has expressed his wish to change his race number to three for the 2026 season if he loses his F1 title and can no longer use number one on his Red Bull car.
Initially, the 28-year-old used number 33 when he started in the sport, a choice that became strongly associated with him in racing communities. However, he picked that number because his future teammate, Daniel Ricciardo, had already claimed number three for himself.
After winning his first world championship in 2021, Verstappen selected number one, reserved for defending champions, and has stuck with it since then. But with the 2025 title likely going to either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri, the Red Bull driver faces a decision.
During the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen stated his plan to switch to number three from 2026 onwards, pending approval from the FIA and Ricciardo. The Australian driver retired from motorsport earlier this year after leaving Racing Bulls in the 2024 season.
When asked about the potential number change, Verstappen replied, “That’s a good question. You need approval for it since the number is currently taken by Daniel Ricciardo. He has not been out of Formula One for two years yet.”
He added, “I will consider it during the winter, but my favorite number is #3. We’ll have to see if it’s feasible.” Playfully, Verstappen mentioned, “I actually wanted number 69, but my dad said ‘that’s not a good idea.’ However, 69 always looks the same, regardless of how you view the car! It would be great for photos, marketing, and caps.”
Verstappen continued, “It doesn’t matter how you wear them, it always stays 69. In that sense, it could be a good marketing tool. I also like 27, but Nico already has that. I think 2 and 7 look great together in terms of shape. So, 3 is my favorite number, but there are several others I find cool.”
Fortunately for Verstappen, Ricciardo is unlikely to oppose the change. The Australian has maintained a strong friendship with his former Red Bull teammate since moving to Renault and remains friends with the 28-year-old despite his departure from open-wheel motorsport.
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Writing in a letter to fans in September, Ricciardo announced his partnership with Ford as a Global Ford Racing Ambassador, expressing his ongoing passion for anything related to wheels despite retiring from racing. He emphasized the importance of fun and happiness in his racing career, which created lasting memories for him.
