Max Verstappen to Race With Number 3 in 2026
After missing out on the 2025 drivers’ title by just two points at the Abu Dhabi GP, Max Verstappen will be switching up his look for next season.
The Dutchman is parting ways with the number 1 on his car as Lando Norris takes over that prestigious digit following his championship win.
But Verstappen isn’t going back to his familiar 33 either.
Instead, he’s taking over the number 3 from his former teammate Daniel Ricciardo when he hits the track in 2026.
This actually brings Verstappen full circle with his racing preferences. In a video shared by Red Bull, he revealed that 3 would have been his first choice when he entered Formula 1 back in 2015.
“I couldn’t pick it of course back in the day, so I just went for double luck,” the four-time world champion explained. “It’s the shape of the number that I liked when I was a kid, #3.”
The number 3 might even bring some championship magic. Three drivers have previously won F1 titles with this number: Graham Hill in 1962, Jacques Villeneuve in 1997, and Michael Schumacher in 2000.
Speaking of champions, Villeneuve himself believes Verstappen has what it takes to make history.
“He has the talent, so give him a chance, and he will snag it. Yes,” the Canadian said when asked if Verstappen could break Schumacher and Hamilton’s record of seven world titles.
After his stunning comeback attempt fell just short this season, fans will be watching closely to see if number 3 brings fresh luck to the Dutch driver next year.
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