Max Verstappen is making headlines for reasons beyond the racetrack as he prepares for the imminent arrival of his first child. The 27-year-old Dutch driver, currently third in the Formula One standings, has withdrawn from his scheduled media commitments for the Miami Grand Prix this weekend, prioritizing family over racing obligations.
Verstappen is expecting a baby with his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet. The couple's first child is due on May 6, just two days after the Miami Grand Prix, which adds a layer of urgency to the situation. The defending champion's absence from media day was confirmed by his Red Bull team, which stated, "Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby. All is well and he will attend track tomorrow for the race weekend. We will not be offering any further comment at this time in respect towards the privacy of Max and his family."
Despite missing media duties on Thursday, May 1, 2025, Verstappen is expected to be present at the Hard Rock Stadium for practice and sprint qualifying on Friday, May 2. His commitment to the race weekend remains strong, as he aims to close the gap in the championship standings.
The timing of the birth is particularly intriguing, as Verstappen has been in fierce competition this season. Currently, Oscar Piastri leads the drivers' standings with 99 points, followed closely by McLaren teammate Lando Norris with 89 points. Verstappen sits in third place with 87 points, making this weekend's race crucial for his title defense.
Verstappen had delayed his flight to the United States to remain with Piquet in Monaco as they await the baby’s arrival. Reports indicate that his private jet was spotted leaving an airport in Nice on Thursday morning, May 1, 2025, which meant he could not fulfill his media obligations in Miami. However, he is expected to join his team at the circuit on Friday for Practice 1, which takes place at lunchtime Miami time, six hours behind Monaco.
As the Miami Grand Prix approaches, excitement builds not only for the race but also for the personal milestone in Verstappen's life. This weekend's events will unfold with a packed schedule, including the sprint race on Saturday, May 3, at 12 PM, and qualifying for the Grand Prix later that afternoon at 4 PM. The main race is set to start on Sunday, May 4, at 4 PM.
Despite the life-changing event on his horizon, Verstappen is determined to compete at the highest level. His focus remains on racing, and he is hopeful to line up on the grid to challenge for a strong finish against Piastri and Norris. Red Bull's commitment to his racing schedule appears unwavering, even as discussions swirl about Verstappen's future intentions in the sport. Some speculate that he may consider stepping back next year, especially given the personal changes in his life. Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko has expressed concerns about Verstappen's potential departure, stating that the anxiety surrounding the subject is "great." An unnamed F1 driver has suggested that Verstappen's most likely route could be a season on the sidelines.
Verstappen and Piquet began dating in 2020 after meeting at a dinner four years prior. Piquet, a Brazilian model, is also a mother to a five-year-old daughter named Penelope from her previous relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. The couple's journey into parenthood is being closely followed by fans and the media alike, adding a personal narrative to the high-stakes world of Formula One racing.
As the Miami Grand Prix weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on Verstappen. Will he be able to balance the responsibilities of impending fatherhood with the demands of a championship season? One thing is certain: the excitement surrounding both his personal life and his professional endeavors is at an all-time high. The race weekend is set to be a thrilling combination of high-speed action on the track and heartfelt moments off it as Verstappen prepares to welcome his child into the world.
In conclusion, as the countdown to the Miami Grand Prix continues, Verstappen's unique situation adds a layer of intrigue to the event. Fans will be eager to see how he performs on the track while navigating this significant life change. Whether he can maintain his competitive edge amidst such personal transitions remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: Verstappen's journey into fatherhood is just as exciting as the races ahead.
