Max Verstappen is gearing up for a big change in 2026. After four seasons as the reigning champion with the number 1, he will switch to number 3. Lando Norris will take over the champion’s number next season. It’s an interesting move because car numbers in racing often reflect personal significance and history.
Before 2014, drivers were assigned numbers based on their team’s performance. However, now each driver can choose their own number, with a few exceptions. The number 1 is reserved for the reigning world champion, while number 17 is retired in memory of Jules Bianchi.
Many drivers choose numbers that have been part of their racing journey. For Verstappen, the switch to 3 is a meaningful one. He shared with Viaplay, “My favorite number has always been 3, apart from number 1. Number 33 was always fine, but I like one 3 better.” This change reflects not only his history but also a personal preference.
Notable Drivers and Their Numbers
Daniel Ricciardo to Max Verstappen (Number 3): Ricciardo made number 3 famous during his racing career. He picked it while karting and felt it represented good luck. Verstappen’s transition to number 3 honors Ricciardo and reflects his admiration for the number’s history in their time together at Red Bull.
Sebastian Vettel to Gabriel Bortoleto (Number 5): Vettel had a strong connection to the number 5, which he linked to his racing roots and his idol, Nigel Mansell. Young driver Bortoleto chose number 5 because he won the Formula 3 championship with it, highlighting how personal numbers can shape a racer’s identity.
Kimi Raikkonen to Jack Doohan (Number 7): Raikkonen chose number 7 for a casual reason, saying he simply picked it. In contrast, Doohan opted for it as a tribute to Raikkonen, showing how numbers can symbolize respect and personal connections in racing.
Social Media Buzz
On social media, fans have expressed mixed feelings about these changes. Many are excited to see how Norris will carry the number 1, while others fondly recall Verstappen’s dominance with it. The conversation around these numbers often ignites nostalgia and debate among fans about the significance of racing numbers.
Historical Context
Historically, numbers have tied closely to a driver’s identity. For example, Juan Manuel Fangio raced with number 1 long before it was a formal championship symbol. Fast forward to today, and we see how these numbers still resonate with fans and drivers alike. The historical context enhances our understanding of why certain numbers become iconic in motorsport.
In conclusion, as Verstappen transitions to number 3 and Norris takes on the number 1, they carry with them the legacies of their predecessors. Each number tells a story, making the world of racing not just about the competition, but also about personal history and connections.
