In a whirlwind of speed and celebration, Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has crossed a new finish line: fatherhood. The 27-year-old Dutch driver and his partner, Brazilian model Kelly Piquet, welcomed their first child together, a daughter named Lily, just before the Miami Grand Prix. The couple announced the joyous news on Instagram with a black-and-white photo capturing a tender moment—Verstappen’s arm around Piquet as they gazed at their newborn. “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily,” they wrote. “Our hearts are fuller than ever.”
The F1 community erupted with congratulations, but one reaction stood out: Verstappen’s younger sister, Victoria, commented, “Can’t wait to meet.” Her four words, brimming with sibling love, warmed hearts across social media. Fans flooded the post, noting the tight-knit Verstappen family’s excitement for its newest member. Victoria’s simple yet emotional response underscored the personal milestone for a driver known for his fierce focus on the track.
Kelly Piquet, 36, daughter of three-time F1 champion Nelson Piquet, is no stranger to the racing world. Already a mother to five-year-old Penelope from her previous relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat, Piquet has seamlessly blended her family with Verstappen’s since they began dating in 2020. Verstappen, who calls himself a “bonus dad” to Penelope, has embraced fatherhood with the same intensity he brings to racing. Despite skipping media day in Miami to be by Piquet’s side in Monaco, he jetted to the Grand Prix in time for practice, proving his knack for balancing family and career.
The announcement, shared on May 2, 2025, came with two poignant images: one of Lily’s tiny hand clutching a finger, another of the new parents beaming with pride. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner joined the chorus of well-wishers, posting, “Welcome to the world, Lily!” Piquet responded with a heartfelt two-word comment: “Thank you.” Other F1 figures, like Nico Hulkenberg and Jack Doohan, also sent their congratulations, while Lewis Hamilton shared kind words about Verstappen’s new chapter during a press conference.
Lily’s arrival, rumored to coincide with the anniversary of Ayrton Senna’s passing, adds a poetic layer to the story for Brazilian fans, given Piquet’s heritage. Verstappen and Piquet, who announced their pregnancy in December 2024, have kept details private, but their joy is palpable. As Verstappen races toward another potential championship, he’s already won at home. With Lily’s genes—carrying the legacy of Verstappen’s four titles and Piquet’s racing dynasty—fans are already joking about a future F1 prodigy. For now, though, the Verstappen-Piquet family is savoring their greatest victory yet: the love of their little girl.
