The Formula 1 world is awaiting big news, both on and next to the circuit, now that Max Verstappen has skipped the Mediadag of the Miami Grand Prix. Red Bull Racing confirmed that the four -time world champion was absent because of the upcoming birth of his first child with his partner, Kelly Piquet. This personal milestone has attracted the attention of fans and media, while Verstappen is preparing for one of the most challenging seasons of his career. Although he missed Thursday’s press moments, the Dutch driver will be expected on Friday for the first free practice and the sprint qualification, ready to compete on the circuit around the Hard Rock Stadium.
Red Bull’s announcement came on Thursday morning, when fans noticed that Verstappens Privéjet, a Falcon 8x, was still at the airport of Nice, close to his hometown of Monaco. “Max will not be present on the Mediadag in Miami because he expects a baby. Everything is going well and he will be on the circuit for the racing weekend tomorrow,” the team said, emphasizing that no further details are shared out of respect for the privacy of Verstappen and his family. This statement followed hours of speculation on social media, where followers of the driver kept his flight movements closely a close eye. Some sources reported later in the day that the jet had left for the United States, which strengthened that Verstappen will arrive in Miami on time.
The timing of the birth, who, according to earlier statements by Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, was expected at the beginning of May, seems to fall perfectly in a short break between races. Marko had previously indicated that the birth would not have an overlap with Verstappens racing obligations, and it seems that this planning holds. Kelly Piquet, who already has a daughter from an earlier relationship, recently shared photos of her baby shower, which fed the speculations about a possible girl. Although the couple itself has not confirmed details about the gender or the exact date, the absence of Verstappen and the silence of Red Bull suggest that the birth may have already taken place or is imminent.
Despite the joyful circumstances, Verstappen remains focused on his performance in Miami, where he already won twice before. However, this season is heavier than in previous years, with only one victory in the first five races and strong competition from McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Verstappen’s position in the championship is under pressure, and the Miami Grand Prix offers an opportunity to breathe new life into his season. His decision to skip the media day, but to attend the race weekend, emphasizes his dedication to the sport, even in a period of personal change. Earlier this year he stated that he would not miss races before birth, a position that called on mixed reactions but reflects his unyielding mentality.
The Formula 1 community has responded with enthusiasm to the BabyNieuws, with congratulations from fans and fellow drivers who express their support via social media. Verstappen, who will only be the second active F1 driver who is father after Nico Hülkenberg, will join a new phase of his life. His family, with a rich motor sport history – his father Jos Verstappen and Kelly’s father Nelson Piquet have seven world titles together – welcomes a new generation. While the world is waiting for an official announcement of birth, attention in Miami remains focused on Verstappens performance. Whether he takes a podium place or holds his newborn child, the Dutchman remains a source of inspiration. Fans wish him and Kelly Piquet good luck in this special time, while fighting the circuit for his fifth world title.
