Max Verstappen has secured permission from Daniel Ricciardo to use the race number 3 in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The Red Bull driver discussed the change with his former teammate during a meeting in Austin. An exemption from FIA rules allowed the switch after Ricciardo's retirement.
Max Verstappen revealed that he spoke with Daniel Ricciardo about adopting the Australian's former race number 3 for the upcoming Formula 1 season. Ricciardo selected number 3 in 2014 and retained it until his career ended following the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.
Verstappen previously used number 33 before claiming number 1 as the 2021 world champion in 2022. He surrendered the champion's number after Lando Norris won the 2025 drivers' standings. Rather than reverting to 33, Verstappen approached Ricciardo for approval to take 3, which he described as his favorite.
"For me, my favourite number was always number 3," Verstappen told Viaplay. "I just couldn't take it at the time because of Daniel. In Austin, we had a good chat with a drink about if I could take over number three. I have a good relationship with Daniel, and he was very happy to give it to me, luckily. So I'm very thankful for that."
FIA regulations require a driver to be retired for two years before their number becomes available. Ricciardo had been out for about one and a half years, prompting Red Bull to seek an exemption, which was granted after a vote.
Verstappen's manager, Raymond Vermuelen, explained: "Basically, it was not possible. We did some management behind the scenes to see if we could claim the number. You have to be out for one or two years. Technically, he was out for one and a half years. So he was very supportive to say he can have the number. FIA has to vote for it. In the end Laurent made it happen that we could claim the number. So that's basically Max's favourite number from the old days, so the number is back with Max."
This change marks a personal milestone for Verstappen as he prepares for 2026 with Red Bull.
