MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Max Verstappen, four-time defending Formula 1 world champion, recently became a father for the first time. He and his partner, Kelly Piquet, celebrated the arrival of their baby daughter as they announced the joyful news at the Miami Grand Prix on Friday.
Verstappen and Piquet, who shared their happiness on Instagram, wrote, “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts are fuller than ever – you are our greatest gift. We love you so much.” Despite this milestone, the couple did not disclose further details about Lily’s birth at this time.
Verstappen skipped Thursday’s activities in Miami to stay with Piquet, who is the daughter of three-time F1 champion Nelson Piquet. The couple went public with their relationship in 2021. Verstappen has been a close stepfather figure to Piquet’s daughter, Penelope, from her previous relationship with driver Daniil Kvyat, though this is Verstappen’s first biological child.
He joins Nico Hülkenberg as one of the only active F1 drivers this season who are also parents. Hülkenberg warmly welcomed Verstappen to the parenting club, hoping his daughter is a “good sleeper,” and expressed confidence that Verstappen would find joy in fatherhood.
Lewis Hamilton, who has claimed the championship title seven times, remarked how he could sense Verstappen’s excitement at a prior race and extended his congratulations. The experience of parenthood brings profound joy, Hamilton noted, as he reflected on their conversation.
There’s a common belief that drivers become more cautious on the track after becoming parents, possibly losing some competitive edge. Hülkenberg doesn’t subscribe to this notion, suggesting that having children can provide balance and benefits outside of racing.
Mercedes driver George Russell shared a similar sentiment, believing that personal life changes like parenthood have varied effects. He noted the happiness children can bring, sharing that many successful drivers have thrived both professionally and personally despite their parental roles.
Verstappen, with 64 career victories under his belt, has consistently dominated the F1 scene, securing the last four titles. However, the current season has been challenging with McLaren showing a competitive edge over Red Bull. Entering Sunday’s Miami Grand Prix – the sixth race of the season – Verstappen stands third in the series standings.
Verstappen has a successful history with the Miami Grand Prix, having won the inaugural two races, while last year saw McLaren’s Lando Norris taking his first F1 victory at the event. As the new season unfolds, both drivers are expected to be formidable contenders once again.