Max Verstappen is contemplating altering his F1 race quantity if allowed.
The Pink Bull driver has been carrying the primary shirt because the begin of the 2022 season after successful the final 4 world championships, however Verstappen is ready to return to his chosen quantity in 2026 as his possibilities of successful this yr’s world title fade.
Since 2014, F1 drivers have been in a position to decide on a private quantity to maintain all through their profession.
Verstappen opted for 33, however until he achieves a miraculous championship victory within the ultimate three races of the season, he’ll robotically return to it subsequent yr.
Nonetheless, Verstappen has revealed he desires to swap his present quantity for the quantity 3, which was just lately utilized by former Pink Bull teammate Daniel Ricciardo.
To perform this, particular permission should be granted.
Requested what quantity he would race subsequent yr, Verstappen instructed Dutch media in Las Vegas:
“We’ll look into it over the winter, however my favourite quantity is quantity three. We’ll should see if it is truly potential.”
What are the foundations for F1 race numbers?
Ricciardo was the final F1 driver to make use of #3
The selection of an F1 driver quantity expires after two seasons on this planet championship, however this doesn’t but apply to Ricciardo, who final raced on the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix.
Given the circumstances, Verstappen would want the FIA to comply with such a change.
His bid could also be boosted by the truth that Ricciardo has already introduced his retirement from motorsport, ruling out a return to F1.
“I truly wished the No. 69 automotive, however my dad stated, ‘That is not a good suggestion,'” Verstappen added. “However irrespective of the way you have a look at the automotive, the numbers all the time look the identical.
“#69 can be excellent for images and advertising and marketing, and likewise for the cap. Irrespective of the way you put on it, it is all the time going to be #69. In that respect, it could be a superb advertising and marketing instrument.”
“I like #27 too, however Nico already has it. I feel #2 and #7 look very nice when it comes to form. So #3 is my favourite quantity, however there are a couple of others that I feel are cool.”
The driving force’s quantity was raised on the newest assembly of the F1 committee.
“Modifications to the rules relating to everlasting competitors numbers for drivers launched within the 2014 season have been mentioned,” the FIA stated. “We now have agreed to permit drivers to suggest altering their quantity throughout their profession.”
That is reportedly on the request of Pink Bull.
