Max Verstappen may have to race under a new number next year. For the past three years, as reigning champion, he has been able to start with number one, but that honor may bypass him in 2026. In the run-up to the GP of Las Vegas, Verstappen flirted with racing number 3, the number he wanted to use at the time of his debut but was then occupied by Daniel Ricciardo. He also revealed that he had considered a more mischievous number at the time.
In the run-up to the GP of Las Vegas and the final triple header of the season, Max Verstappen is still 49 points behind World Championship leader Lando Norris. Therefore, there is a high chance that the Red Bull driver will miss out on the title this year. In that case, Verstappen will have to choose a new racing number next year; number one is reserved for the reigning champion. He shared his considerations in a conversation with the Dutch press.
Number 3
Verstappen would prefer to race with number 3, the number he also wanted to use during his Formula 1 debut. However, at that time it was occupied by Daniel Ricciardo and the Dutchman had to settle for 33. He may use number 3 next year. “I have to get approval for that first,” Verstappen explained. “That number is not officially free yet, because Daniel has not been out of Formula 1 for two years.”
Verstappen revealed that he once flirted with a risqué racing number. “I actually wanted 69, but my father said: ‘That’s not a good idea’,” the Limburger laughed. Yet, according to him, 69 also has its advantages. “That number always looks good on screen, no matter how you drive,” said Verstappen. “So it would be very good for the photos and marketing. The same goes for caps; no matter how you wear them, it remains 69. Unfortunately, I haven’t had that yet, 69 … as a racing number,” he concluded with a grin.
