P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Lando Norris enforces F1 champion rule over Max Verstappen
“Lando Norris will change his F1 driver number for the 2026 season after winning the title at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, taking the number 1 spot from Max Verstappen.
Norris has used number 4 since 2019 but will switch to number 1 as the reigning champion with McLaren.
Verstappen, who held number 33 before becoming the 2021 champion and then number 1, will need a new number for 2026, possibly considering 3 or 69.
Norris became the 35th F1 champion, the 11th British driver, and follows in Hamilton’s footsteps at McLaren as a titleholder.
Other drivers may also change numbers in 2026 as F1 rules allow for number switches for the first time since 2014, opening up possibilities for a new season of racing.”
