Linus Torvalds: Someone 'More Competent Who Isn't Afraid of Numbers Past the Teens' Will Take Over Linux One Day

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by msmash

February 24, 2026

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Linus Torvalds recently shared his thoughts on the future of the Linux kernel in a lighthearted yet insightful post announcing the release candidate for version 7.0. Known for his humor, Torvalds admitted that the new major version number (7.0) is essentially arbitrary and not tied to any specific features or milestones. He explained that the numbering system has long lost its connection to stability or innovation, serving merely as a marker of progress over time. Despite this, he reiterated his plan to continue following the established release cycle, ending each series at x.19 before moving to y.0, a process that takes roughly 3.5 years. In his post, Torvalds humorously noted that he finds large numbers increasingly confusing and joked about needing someone "more competent who isn’t afraid of numbers past the teens" to take over when the time comes. He acknowledged that while he plans to continue leading the kernel for now, he ultimately expects a successor to step in as the project evolves. This self-deprecating remark reflects his realistic view of his own limitations and his confidence in the community’s ability to ensure the Linux kernel’s long-term success. While Torvalds’ comments were laced with humor, they also highlight an important aspect of open-source development: the need for sustainable leadership and planning for the future. By addressing the challenges of maintaining a decades-long project, he underscores the importance of having capable leaders who can adapt to changing circumstances. For tech enthusiasts and developers, this matters because Linux is a foundational component of countless systems, from servers to embedded devices. Torvalds’ reflections reassure

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Originally published on Slashdot on 2/24/2026