Just 10 minutes ago, Dutch Formula 1 superstar Max Verstappen revealed shocking news to fans during a brief media appearance in Monte Carlo, Monaco, sending shockwaves through the racing community. The reigning World Champion appeared visibly emotional as he shared that his father, former F1 driver Jos Verstappen, is currently facing a serious health issue that has required immediate medical attention. The revelation has prompted an outpouring of concern and support from fans, fellow drivers, and teams across the Formula 1 world.
Speaking outside the Red Bull Racing hospitality suite, Verstappen struggled to hold back emotion as he confirmed that his father had been admitted to a hospital in the Netherlands earlier this morning. “It’s been a very difficult few hours,” Verstappen said quietly. “My father hasn’t been feeling well, and the situation became serious quite suddenly. He’s receiving the best care possible, and I’m in close contact with my family.” The 27-year-old driver did not provide specific details about his father’s condition but asked for privacy and understanding during this time.
Jos Verstappen, now 53, is a former Formula 1 driver who competed between 1994 and 2003, racing for teams including Benetton, Tyrrell, and Arrows. Known for his aggressive driving style and technical insight, he played a major role in shaping Max’s career from a very young age. For many years, Jos was a constant presence in the paddock, guiding his son through karting championships and early junior series before Max made his sensational Formula 1 debut at just 17 years old. The close father-son bond has been well documented, and despite occasional tensions in the past, the two have remained strongly connected both personally and professionally.
Verstappen’s announcement quickly spread across social media, with fans using hashtags like #StayStrongJos and #PrayForTheVerstappens to express their support. Several current and former drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Fernando Alonso, posted messages wishing Jos Verstappen a swift recovery. Red Bull Racing also released a brief statement confirming that Max has the team’s full support and that his participation in upcoming events will depend on how the situation develops. “The entire Red Bull family stands with Max and his family during this difficult time,” the statement read.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali also expressed his concern, emphasizing the respect that the sport holds for the Verstappen family. “Jos is part of Formula 1 history, and Max continues to carry that legacy with pride,” Domenicali said. “We send our thoughts and best wishes to the Verstappen family.”
The timing of the news comes just days before the Japanese Grand Prix, where Verstappen was expected to continue his dominant run in the championship. With uncertainty surrounding his father’s health, it remains unclear whether the Dutch driver will travel to Suzuka as planned. Sources close to the team suggest that Verstappen may take a short break if necessary to be with his family.
Despite the somber tone of his message, Verstappen expressed gratitude to his supporters and reiterated his faith in his father’s resilience. “Anyone who knows my dad knows how strong he is,” he said. “He’s a fighter, always has been. I believe he’ll come through this, and I just want to thank everyone for their messages and kindness.”
As the news continues to unfold, fans around the world are rallying behind the Verstappen family, hoping for positive updates in the coming days. For many, the story serves as a poignant reminder that even the brightest stars of Formula 1 face deeply human challenges beyond the racetrack. In Monte Carlo, the atmosphere remained subdued as Max Verstappen quietly left the venue, escorted by members of the Red Bull team, leaving fans and journalists alike united in concern and sympathy for one of motorsport’s most iconic families.
