The Formula 1 world has just been shocked by a heartwarming and emotional moment that has touched the hearts of fans worldwide. Just ten minutes ago, it was confirmed that four-time world champion Max Verstappen had become a father to his first child with partner Kelly Piquet. In an intimate moment that quickly went viral, Verstappen was unable to hold back the tears as he held his newborn baby in a hospital in Monaco. The Dutch driver, who is often praised for his unwavering focus on the track, showed an unprecedented soft side that has deeply touched the Formula 1 community. At the same time, he surprised everyone with a major announcement that he will share during the upcoming race weekend in Miami, further building anticipation for his performance on and off the track.
News of the birth was first hinted at when Verstappen’s private jet, which had been in Nice earlier in the day, suddenly departed for the United States. Red Bull Racing confirmed shortly afterwards that the driver had skipped the media day in Miami to be present at the birth, but would arrive for free practice on Friday. While the team did not share any official details about the birth, sources close to the couple leaked that Kelly Piquet had given birth in the early hours of the morning. A photo shared on social media by a family member showed Verstappen with teary eyes as he cradled his baby, an image that immediately went viral around the world. Fans responded en masse with congratulations, with many praising the driver for showing his humanity in a sport often about speed and rivalry.
Kelly Piquet, who already has a daughter from a previous relationship, had previously hinted at the baby’s arrival. In a recent Instagram post, she revealed that she was in her third trimester, suggesting she would give birth sometime between February and April 2025. The timing seems to have worked out perfectly, just ahead of the start of the Formula 1 season, which begins in Australia on March 16. Verstappen himself recently spoke about his impending fatherhood in a podcast, saying that his experience with Piquet’s daughter Penelope had given him some preparation. “It’s exciting, but I know the baby is in good hands,” he said, referring to their close-knit family. The birth marks a new chapter for the couple, who have been together since 2021 and share an impressive racing DNA with Kelly’s father, three-time world champion Nelson Piquet.
What makes the story even more intriguing is Verstappen’s unexpected announcement that he will make during the race weekend in Miami. While details are still scarce, sources suggest that it could be a personal decision that could affect his future in Formula 1. Earlier this year, Verstappen spoke about the balance between his career and personal life, and hinted that he wants to drive fewer races to spend more time with his family. These comments, combined with his emotional reaction to the birth, have fueled speculation about a possible sabbatical or even early retirement. However, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner denied that Verstappen will leave the team, insisting that the driver will return to the track “stronger than ever”.
As Verstappen prepares for the Miami Grand Prix, where he has already won twice, part of the focus remains on his new role as a father. His rivals, including McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, have sent their congratulations, with Norris joking that Verstappen is “really going to have sleepless nights now”. Despite the joyous circumstances, the Dutchman is under pressure to revive a season that has so far seen just one win. Whether he’s holding his baby in Monaco or climbing the podium in Miami, Verstappen continues to inspire. The Formula 1 world is eagerly awaiting his announcement and celebrating this special moment in his life.
