Number 3 Returns to Formula 1 as Verstappen Makes a Bold Choice for 2026

Max Verstappen will race with a new number in the 2026 Formula 1 season. He will use number 3 on his Red Bull Racing car.

Verstappen won four straight World Championships from 2022 to 2025. During that run, he raced with the iconic number 1. The situation changed for 2026.

Lando Norris won the 2025 title. He chose to race with number 1 for the new season. That decision forced Verstappen to make a choice.

Verstappen did not return to his old number 33. Instead, he picked number 3. It is his favorite number.

A Number with History

Numbers matter in Formula 1. Fans strongly connect number 3 with Daniel Ricciardo.

Ricciardo raced with number 3 from 2014 to 2024. During that time, the number became iconic. It represented bold overtakes and aggressive racing. Many fans still link the number to Ricciardo.

That history makes Verstappen’s choice special.

Permission and Respect

Verstappen asked Daniel Ricciardo for permission before using the number. He also received approval from the FIA.

This step showed respect. It also honored the number’s legacy.

Why Verstappen Chose Number 3

The choice was personal. Verstappen wanted a fresh start. He selected a number he truly likes.

Number 3 reflects preference, not dominance.

Max Verstappen will race with a new number in the 2026 Formula 1 season. For the first time, he will use number 3 on his Red Bull Racing car.

Verstappen won four straight World Championships from 2022 to 2025. During that period, he raced with the iconic number 1. However, the situation changed for 2026.

In 2025, Lando Norris won the championship. As a result, he chose to race with number 1 for the new season. Because of this, Verstappen needed a new number.

Instead of returning to his old number 33, Verstappen made a different choice. Rather, he selected number 3. Notably, it has always been his favorite.

A Number with History

In Formula 1, numbers matter. For many fans, number 3 connects strongly with Daniel Ricciardo.

Ricciardo raced with number 3 from 2014 to 2024. During those years, the number became iconic. For example, it symbolized bold overtakes and aggressive racing. Therefore, many fans still link the number to Ricciardo.

Because of this history, Verstappen’s decision feels significant.

Permission and Respect

Before making the switch, Verstappen asked Daniel Ricciardo for permission. At the same time, he received approval from the FIA.

In doing so, Verstappen showed respect. More importantly, he honored the number’s legacy.

Why Verstappen Chose Number 3

Ultimately, the decision was personal. Rather than looking back, Verstappen wanted a fresh start. As such, he chose a number he truly likes.

In this case, number 3 reflects preference, not dominance.

Back on the Grid in 2026

In 2026, number 3 returns to the Formula 1 grid. This time, it will appear on a Red Bull Racing car.

Meanwhile, one of the sport’s most successful drivers will carry it. In the end, the moment blends history with a new era. For fans, the season cannot come soon enough.

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