F1 Cap Guide: 9FORTY vs 9FIFTY vs 9SEVENTY vs Trucker
Quick answer: choose a 9FORTY for a classic curved visor cap with an adjustable strap, a 9FIFTY for a taller, flat visor streetwear look, a 9SEVENTY for a structured curved visor cap with a stretch and snap fit, a 9TWENTY for a soft, relaxed cap, and a trucker if you want a mesh back that breathes in the heat.
The names come from New Era, the official cap partner of several F1 teams, including Red Bull Racing, Williams Racing, VCA Racing Bulls, Haas and Alpine. Each number stands for a different shape.
The styles compared
| Style | Crown | Visor | Closure | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9FORTY | Mid height, structured front | Curved | Adjustable strap | An everyday cap that fits most heads |
| 9FIFTY | High, structured, flat front | Flat | Snapback | A bold streetwear look |
| 9SEVENTY | Structured, a little taller than 9FORTY | Curved | Stretch Snap | A sharp team look with a snug, flexible fit |
| 9TWENTY | Low, unstructured, soft | Curved | Adjustable strap | A relaxed, washed dad cap style |
| Trucker | Structured front, mesh back | Curved | Snapback | Hot weather and race days |
9FORTY: the all rounder
The 9FORTY is the classic baseball cap shape: a curved visor, a medium depth crown and an adjustable strap at the back. It is the easiest style to wear and fits a wide range of head sizes. Williams Racing and VCA Racing Bulls use the 9FORTY for their 2026 team caps, and there are kids versions too.
9FIFTY: flat visor and a taller crown
The 9FIFTY has a high, structured front, a flat visor and a snapback closure. It sits higher on the head and gives a streetwear look. You will find it in lifestyle ranges such as the Red Bull Racing Essentials 9FIFTY and the McLaren Pop 9FIFTY.
9SEVENTY: the 2026 team cap shape
The 9SEVENTY combines a structured crown and curved visor with New Era's Stretch Snap closure, a flexible band with a snap at the back. The result is a clean shape with a snug fit. Red Bull Racing uses it for its 2026 team and driver caps, including the 2026 Max Verstappen 9SEVENTY Driver Cap, and so does Haas for its 2026 team cap.
9TWENTY: soft and relaxed
The 9TWENTY is unstructured, with a low crown that shapes to your head and a cloth strap. It is the most casual style, often with washed fabrics and retro designs such as the Williams 2026 Japan Damon Hill 9TWENTY.
Trucker: made for the heat
A trucker cap has a structured front panel and a mesh back, so air moves through it. That makes it a smart pick for sunny race days and summer travel. Williams Racing and VCA Racing Bulls both offer trucker styles in their 2026 lifestyle ranges.
What about Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes and Aston Martin caps?
Teams that work with other kit partners make their caps with those partners rather than New Era. Most of their team and driver caps use a curved visor baseball shape with an adjustable back, similar to a 9FORTY. Browse Scuderia Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG Petronas and Aston Martin, or see every team in caps from all teams.
How to keep your cap in shape
- Spot clean with a damp cloth and mild soap; avoid the washing machine and dryer.
- Let it air dry on a rounded shape, such as a small bowl or a ball.
- Do not leave it on a car dashboard in direct sun; heat can warp the visor and fade the colours.
Shop caps by style
9SEVENTY: Red Bull Racing 2026 Max Verstappen Driver Cap
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9FORTY: Williams Racing 2026 Team Cap
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9FIFTY: Red Bull Racing Essentials Cap
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Trucker: Williams Racing Essential Trucker Cap
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a 9FORTY and a 9SEVENTY?
Both have a curved visor. The 9FORTY has a medium crown and an adjustable strap, while the 9SEVENTY has a slightly taller structured crown and a Stretch Snap closure that combines a flexible band with a snap.
Are F1 caps one size?
Most F1 caps are adjustable and fit a wide range of adult head sizes. Some teams also offer kids and women's versions.
Which cap is best for hot weather?
A trucker cap, because its mesh back lets air through. A light coloured 9FORTY or 9TWENTY is also a comfortable choice.
Do F1 drivers wear these caps?
Yes. Driver caps are the ones the drivers wear in the paddock, at interviews and on the podium, and the team caps are worn by team members across the race weekend.
