Max Verstappen has expressed his wish to change his race number to three for the 2026 season if he loses his F1 title and forfeits the right to use number one on his Red Bull car. When he first joined the sport, the 28-year-old used number 33, which became closely associated with him in racing circles. However, he only selected that number because his future teammate, Daniel Ricciardo, had already taken number three for himself.
After winning his first world championship in 2021, Verstappen switched to number one, reserved for defending champions, and has kept it since. With the 2025 title likely going to either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri, the Red Bull driver needs to decide on a new number.
Speaking at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Verstappen confirmed his plan to switch to number three starting in 2026, pending approval from the FIA and Ricciardo. The Australian driver retired from motorsport earlier in the year after leaving Racing Bulls in the 2024 season.
Verstappen humorously mentioned his interest in number 69 but acknowledged his father’s disapproval. He also expressed a liking for number 27, already taken by another driver, and explained why number three is his favorite. Fortunately, Ricciardo is unlikely to object, as he maintains a strong friendship with Verstappen even after leaving open-wheel motorsport.
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In a letter to fans in September, Ricciardo announced his partnership with Ford as a Global Ford Racing Ambassador, emphasizing his enduring passion for anything related to wheels. He highlighted that racing was always about enjoyment and creating lasting memories for him.