The Formula 1 world is used to creating a buzz on the circuit, but this time, the biggest news from Max Verstappen comes off the track. The four-time world champion has dropped a bombshell with a candid revelation about his relationship with his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, surprising fans and the media. None other than his father, Jos Verstappen, confirmed the news, only fueling speculation. What is the big secret Verstappen finally shared, and why is it causing such a stir?
Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet have been a couple since 2020, and their relationship has always been closely followed by the media. Kelly, the daughter of Triple World Champion Nelson Piquet, is no stranger to the Formula 1 world. She previously dated driver Daniil Kvyat, with whom she had a daughter, Penelope. Since she’s with Verstappen, the pair seem inextricably linked. From romantic photos on Instagram to joint performances in the paddock, Max and Kelly have never hidden their love. But during a recent interview with De Telegraaf in Abu Dhabi, Verstappen made a revelation that once again put the spotlight on the couple: they welcomed their first child together, a daughter, in April 2025.
The announcement came as a surprise, although rumors of a pregnancy had been circulating for some time. Verstappen, known for his reticence about his private life, shared the news with a mix of pride and sobriety. “It’s time to tell everything,” he said with a smile. “Kelly and I are very happy and we look forward to starting this new adventure together.” Jos Verstappen, who has always played a significant role in Max’s life and career, was one of the first to know. In the same interview with De Telegraaf, Jos revealed: “I knew for a while. I know my son well, and you can see it. I’m very happy for them.”
The arrival of a child marks a new phase for Verstappen, who has already built an unparalleled career at the age of 27. Some fans wondered if fatherhood would affect his focus on Formula 1, especially after a difficult 2024 season in which McLaren acquired Red Bull. Verstappen reassured them: “I will continue racing, and 2025 will be a crucial year for our team.” Jos supported this by emphasizing that Max’s commitment to the sport remains unchanged, despite the changes in his personal life.
The relationship between Max and Kelly has not been without controversy. Tensions arose in 2021 when Kelly fiercely criticized Lewis Hamilton on Instagram after a collision with Max in Great Britain. This led to rumors of a conflict with Jos, who did not appreciate Kelly’s statements. The two even reportedly posted pictures of each other on social media and avoided each other in the paddock. While these rumors have never been fully confirmed, the relationship between Jos and Kelly now appears to be more stable, especially as they celebrate impending parenthood together.
For Kelly, this marks her second child, following her daughter with Kvyat. She has always maintained a strong presence in the spotlight, despite the pressures of Formula 1 life and the online hate she sometimes receives. She recently shared an emotional message on Instagram, urging fans to refrain from negative comments. Verstappen fully supports her in this and emphasized in an interview with F1Maxab how important her support is to him, both at work and outside of work.
With the Belgian Grand Prix approaching, where Verstappen vowed to take “revenge” on McLaren, the focus on his achievements remains intense. But the revelation about his impending fatherhood adds a human dimension to the fearless driver. Fans worldwide are congratulating the couple, while others are speculating about what family life will be like for Verstappen. One thing is certain: the combination of his unparalleled talent and this new phase of life makes Max Verstappen an even more fascinating figure in Formula 1.
