F1: Lando Norris to Race with Number 1 in 2026

Lando Norris will carry the number 1 on his McLaren for the 2026 Formula 1 season, signalling his arrival as the reigning world champion after a close title fight in 2025. He sealed the championship with third place at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a result that kept him two points clear of Max Verstappen, who won the race but missed the title. With that achievement, Norris chose to set aside his familiar number 4 and take up the number used only by the champion. Verstappen had held the number 1 since his 2021 title, and the move now brings it to McLaren as the team prepares for the next season with new rules and fresh momentum. The team confirmed that the number will feature on all race equipment and appear through pre-season testing in Bahrain.

Also Read: Lando Norris Crowned 2025 F1 World Champion; Verstappen Takes Abu Dhabi GP Victory

Formula 1 introduced permanent driver numbers in 2014, giving each driver a fixed identity across their career. Only the reigning champion may switch to number 1, though they may keep their usual number if they prefer. Lewis Hamilton chose to remain with 44 during his title years with Mercedes, while Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen embraced number 1 after their championship wins. Norris now follows that tradition as McLaren links its title comeback to the start of a new era in the sport.

Norris explained that the switch reflects the collective effort behind McLaren’s 2025 campaign. The team will display number 1 across uniforms, garage areas, and car setups as it begins the season under new technical regulations. These include active aerodynamics and sustainable fuels that will influence car behaviour and race strategy. Oscar Piastri stays on as Norris’ teammate as McLaren aims to continue its progress.

Verstappen’s time with number 1 covered 92 grands prix from 2022 to 2025, moving past Michael Schumacher’s 87-race run with Ferrari between 2001 and 2005. With Norris taking the champion’s number, Verstappen will return to his earlier number 33 for the upcoming season, closing a four-year phase in which Red Bull held the top digit.

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McLaren ended a 26-year wait for the Drivers’ Championship thanks to Norris’ 2025 success and also secured the Constructors’ title in the same year.