Max Verstappen Confirms New 2026 F1 Number as Mercedes Test Footage Emerges

Max Verstappen has reportedly confirmed his new car number ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Earlier in the month, Verstappen saw his four-year reign as F1 world champion come to an end at the hands of McLaren's Lando Norris.

The 26-year-old Brit finished third in the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, meaning he managed to stay top of the final standings by just two points.

With F1 set to return at the end of next month for private testing, Verstappen was recently seen testing a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in Estoril, Portugal, with 2 Seas Motorsport.

During the testing session in Portugal, it appears that Verstappen has already confirmed his new car number for 2026.

The Dutchman will no longer be able to use No.1 after losing the world championship to Norris.

Meanwhile, the man himself hinted that he would no longer use No.33, which was what he started with before winning his first title back in 2021.

According to GP Blog, Verstappen has the option to use No.3, which is said to be his favourite number.

The No.3 was previously used by Daniel Ricciardo, and according to FIA rules, there is a two-year waiting period before a number becomes free.

As Ricciardo left F1 in September 2024, Verstappen technically can't use No.3 for the 2026 season.

However, GP Blog reported that if a 'former driver voluntarily relinquishes the rights to a number, the waiting period no longer applies'.

It is believed that Ricciardo is willing to give up his number, and Verstappen was even seen with the No.3 above his pit box during the Mercedes GT3 test session.

Verstappen's decision is expected to be made official on December 20 when the FIA release the 2026 entry list.

Speaking about the No.3 last month, Verstappen said: "I do indeed need approval, so it's a good question which number I'll be driving next year. My favourite number is 3, but I still have to wait and see if that's actually possible and permitted."