Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula One champion, is contemplating a change to his career race number for the 2024 season. Currently using the No. 1 after winning the championship in 2021, Verstappen may revert to the number 3 if he does not successfully defend his title this year.
Since the introduction of the personal race number system in 2014, drivers have had the autonomy to select a number that represents them throughout their careers. Verstappen, who debuted in 2015, initially chose the number 33. The reigning champion’s right to use No. 1 is reserved exclusively for the current titleholder, a privilege he has held since 2022.
With three races remaining in the season, Verstappen trails the current championship leader by a substantial 49 points. In light of this deficit, he acknowledges that he requires “a lot of luck” to secure his fifth consecutive title. Should he fail to win the championship, Verstappen would ordinarily revert to No. 33. However, a recent decision by the Formula One Commission could pave the way for him to adopt a new number altogether.
Potential Number Change Pending Approval
The new regulation, which would allow drivers to change their career numbers, is pending approval from the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council. If the rule is ratified in time for the 2024 season, Verstappen has expressed a clear desire to switch to the number 3, previously worn by his former teammate, who retired from F1 last year.
Verstappen shared his thoughts on this potential change during an interview, stating, “I will look at it over the winter, but my favourite number is 3. We just need to see whether that is actually possible.”
In discussing his options, Verstappen humorously noted that he had considered several numbers before settling on 3. “I actually wanted No. 69, but my dad said ‘that’s not a good idea,'” he remarked. He added that No. 69 might have been visually appealing for marketing purposes, as it maintains its appearance regardless of orientation.
The Dutch driver also mentioned other numbers he finds appealing, such as No. 27, but noted that it is already taken. “I think #2 and #7 look really nice together in terms of shape,” he explained. Despite the options, it appears that No. 3 remains his top choice.
As the season draws to a close, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Verstappen can overcome the odds to retain the No. 1 or if he will indeed make the switch to No. 3. Regardless of the outcome, the discussion surrounding his race number has ignited interest among the F1 community, highlighting the personal connections drivers have with their chosen numbers.
