Max Verstappen's Number Switch, Fanatics Deal, and Red Bull Future: 2026 F1 Preview

Max Verstappen BioSnap a weekly updated Biography.

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Regarding your request about Max Verstappen news: I can provide information based on the search results available, but I should clarify that these results don't cover "the past few days" comprehensively. The most recent article is dated December 22, 2025, and the search results primarily contain information from throughout the 2025 season rather than daily updates from the past few days.

Based on the available sources, here's what I can share about recent Max Verstappen developments:

Max Verstappen confirmed he will race under car number 3 for the 2026 Formula 1 season, transitioning from number 1 after finishing just two points behind 2025 champion Lando Norris. According to Formula 1 official reporting, Verstappen chose number 3 as his preferred number, describing it as his favorite. He had to request special permission from retired driver Daniel Ricciardo to use the number due to F1's restrictions on retired driver numbers.

In a significant business development, Verstappen has secured a major merchandise partnership with Fanatics, aligning with his driver number transition. This deal aims to scale his global merchandise and collectibles business operations.

Regarding his Formula 1 future, Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff expressed confidence to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that Verstappen will finish his career with the team, stating he has "no doubt" about this outcome. Mintzlaff emphasized that he's not concerned about performance clauses in Verstappen's contract and highlighted the improved atmosphere at Red Bull following their strong second-half performance in 2025.

Verstappen himself has publicly committed to staying with Red Bull through 2026, having confirmed this commitment ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix in August. He acknowledged that various factors beyond Formula 1 would influence any future career decisions, but indicated his goal is to remain with the team long-term.

The driver finished the 2025 season with a remarkable comeback, winning six of the final nine races after a slow start, though ultimately falling two points short of a fifth consecutive championship.

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