F1: Lando Norris Will Race With Number 1 in the 2026 Season
2025 Formula 1 World Champion Lando Norris revealed a major decision shortly after the Abu Dhabi season finale. The young British driver announced that he will run the iconic number 1 on his car in the 2026 season, leaving behind the number 4 that he has used throughout his career.
After completing a remarkable championship journey with McLaren, Norris emphasized that this choice is not just a personal change, but a powerful symbol for the entire team. In his eyes, the number 1 represents not only a title, but also the hard work and dedication behind that success.
While explaining his decision, Norris highlighted the role of his team members:
“This number exists for a reason. You fight for it, you work incredibly hard to deserve it. It’s not just about me.”
He also spoke about the emotional impact of carrying number 1 on the team:
All my mechanics, engineers and everyone at McLaren will wear this number with pride. It’s a reward for them too.
Keeping his characteristic humor, Norris summed up the difference in motivation:
Saying ‘we are number 4’ sounds nice, but when you say ‘we are number 1’, everything feels different. Everyone becomes happier.
With this move, Lando Norris will become the third Formula 1 driver in the era of permanent race numbers to choose the number 1 after winning a world championship, following legends such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
