Max Verstappen and his partner Kelly Piquet are expecting their first child. This will be the first baby for the four-time world champion, who is already a ‘bonus father’ to his Brazilian girlfriend’s daughter. After qualifying for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he was congratulated by the attending journalists, who were also curious about how he plans to balance fatherhood with Formula 1.
On Friday, Verstappen and Piquet announced via social media that they are expecting a baby. The comments were filled with speculation about the racing blood of the child. After all, father Max Verstappen is a four-time world champion, but grandfather Nelson Piquet also has three Formula 1 titles to his name. Is it only a matter of time before this newest Verstappen offspring enters the premier class? “I hope not,” Max responded immediately. “Of course, I would support him or her if there is a desire to race in Formula 1, but to be honest, I really hope that won’t be necessary.”
Racing versus Family
When asked, Verstappen explained that he does not expect fatherhood to affect his Formula 1 career. “I’ve already had some practice,” he said, referring to caring for Penelope, the daughter of his girlfriend Kelly Piquet. “In that regard, it’s nothing new to me. He or she will, of course, have my DNA, so that’s a bit different,” Verstappen laughed. “The baby will be in good hands regardless. I know I can focus on racing and then just come home to my family.”
Finally, Max Verstappen was asked if he had considered taking a sabbatical because of the baby. “No, I never thought about that,” he replied. “I haven’t been concerned with that at all.” The Dutchman did, however, speak more frequently about retirement this season. When he clinched his fourth title, he repeatedly mentioned how important time with his family is to him. He has a contract with Red Bull until at least 2028.
