Ricciardo jokes about Verstappen's new #3 race number
Summary
After losing 2023 title, Max Verstappen swaps his #1 for #3 – the number formerly used by teammate Daniel Ricciardo, who quipped about Verstappen’s “soft hands” in a Bull video, highlighting bond.
Max Verstappen will race under #3 this season after surrendering his #1 to Lando Norris. The number, formerly Daniel Ricciardo’s, was handed over with Ricciardo’s soft‑hands joke.
Why it matters:
- Brand identity – the number swap reshapes Verstappen’s brand and merchandise.
- Team chemistry – Ricciardo’s approval shows the close bond between the two Red Bull drivers.
The details:
- Verstappen’s 2023 loss forced him to give up #1, which he’d used since 2022.
- Ricciardo, former #3 holder, approved the switch under Red Bull’s internal policy.
- #3 first appeared on Verstappen’s car at the Barcelona test and on team apparel at the RB22 launch.
- In a Red Bull video, Verstappen greets Ricciardo, puts his hands on him and says “soft hands”; Ricciardo replies “c’est magnifique!” while Laurent Mekies jokes it’s “a bit scary.”
- The clip sparked fan memes, with the “soft hands” line trending on Twitter and Instagram.
What's next:
- Verstappen will debut #3 on the grid for the opening race, prompting fresh merchandise.
- The #3 branding will appear on team livery, pit lane signage and Verstappen’s helmet, giving sponsors visual real estate.
- The banter underscores their camaraderie as they chase the 2024 championship.
Original Article :https://racingnews365.com/daniel-ricciardo-reacts-to-soft-hands-max-verstappen-n...