Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is expected to change his driver number for the upcoming 2026 season amid a decline in his performance and rising competition. After securing four consecutive drivers’ championships, Verstappen’s reign looks set to end this year, which will affect his use of the No. 1 racing number.
During the 2025 season, Verstappen has faced difficulties both on and off the track, sitting third in the standings after 14 rounds with 187 points. Red Bull’s struggles contrast sharply with the improving form of McLaren, who are dominating the constructors‘ championship and have two drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, leading the drivers’ battle. With only 10 races remaining, Verstappen trails Piastri by 97 points, making a fifth title unlikely and signaling that Verstappen will likely relinquish the No. 1 number.
Explanation of how F1 driver numbers are assigned
Historically, Formula 1 driver numbers were allocated based on their team’s position in the previous season’s championship. However, this system changed in 2014 when drivers gained the ability to choose their own permanent numbers. These personal numbers stay with drivers throughout their careers unless they win the world championship, at which point they may use the No. 1 number the following season.
If either Piastri or Norris wins the title in 2025, Verstappen will be required to give up the No. 1 badge, which he currently displays prominently on his car and racing gear, and return to using his original number, 33. However, the rule does not mandate champions to adopt the No. 1 number. For example, seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton has never changed from his chosen No. 44 during any of his championship-winning years.
Choices behind driver number selections and Verstappen’s own decision
Hamilton has shared the significance of his number, saying,
“It’s the number that my family recognised the most, it’s the number that has been loyal to me and to my fans,”
—Lewis Hamilton, F1 World Champion
In Verstappen’s case, he originally wanted to use the No. 3, but since that number was already taken by Daniel Ricciardo, he opted for No. 33 instead, adding an extra digit to his preferred figure.
Current F1 driver number policy and future expectations
The driver number rule change has added a more personal dimension to Formula 1, allowing drivers to establish a unique identity on the grid. The upcoming 2026 season promises to see Verstappen revert to a non-No. 1 number if his championship streak ends, marking a notable shift for the sport’s reigning champion.
As the 2025 season progresses, Verstappen’s performance will be closely monitored to see if McLaren’s Piastri or Norris can dethrone the Dutch driver. This competition not only impacts the championship race but also the symbolic meaning behind driver numbers in Formula 1.