Max Verstappen Delays Miami Grand Prix Arrival Due to Imminent Fatherhood
Max Verstappen’s participation in the Miami Grand Prix has been impacted by the upcoming birth of his first child with partner Kelly Piquet. The defending Formula 1 champion has extended his stay in Europe, prioritizing family commitments, and will arrive in Miami late Thursday, missing the day’s media obligations.
Red Bull confirmed Verstappen’s situation, stating, “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.”
Piquet, who has a daughter from a prior relationship, is set to welcome their child shortly, marking Verstappen as one of only two current fathers on the grid, alongside Nico Hulkenberg. Hulkenberg acknowledged the camaraderie among fathers in the sport, noting, “I hope it’s a good sleeper… It’s a different journey that adds to your life experience.”
Fellow drivers George Russell and Lewis Hamilton extended their congratulations, highlighting how parenthood may enhance Verstappen’s performance. Russell remarked, “For anyone who’s had a kid, it’s a pretty special moment… I don’t see it changing anything on his professional level.” Hamilton expressed excitement about Verstappen’s new chapter, recounting a brief discussion in Saudi Arabia where Verstappen shared his enthusiasm.
As Verstappen prepares for practice sessions, the motorsport world watches closely, both for the on-track action and the personal milestone in his life.
