In a significant announcement, newly crowned Formula 1 World Champion Lando Norris has declared that he will proudly display the number 1 on his car for the upcoming season. This iconic number, traditionally associated with the reigning champion, has been held by Red Bull driver Max Verstappen since he clinched his first title in 2021.
Norris, who typically races with the number 4, expressed his decision as a reflection of his hard-earned championship status following a nail-biting finish in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he secured the title by just two points. In an interview with Sky Sports News, Norris emphasized the importance of tradition in the sport, stating, “It’s tradition, it’s there for a reason. It’s there because you can go and try to grab it and you can work hard to try and get it.”
He also highlighted the collective effort of his McLaren team, saying, “All of us as a team that gets to have a role in McLaren, or my car, will get to wear that with pride.” Norris acknowledged the dedication of his mechanics and engineers, allowing them to share in the glory of the championship title. “So, it’s not for me, it’s for them as well. It’s their pride, knowing that they put a lot of work and effort into everything that they can also go ‘we’re number one.’ It’s not as cool when you say ‘we are number four’ so they will be even happier than I am!”
Since 2014, Formula 1 drivers have had the option to choose a personal racing number that follows them throughout their careers. Notably, Lewis Hamilton is the only champion during this era to decline the number 1, opting instead to retain his preferred number, 44. Verstappen had previously raced under the number 33, but it remains uncertain whether he will revert to that number or apply for a change in 2026.
As the start of the new season approaches, Norris is set to prepare for pre-season testing with a refreshed car, his new number, and the confidence that comes with being the reigning champion of Formula 1.
