Max Verstappen Welcomes First Child with Kelly Piquet

Max Verstappen, four-time Formula 1 world champion, and his partner Kelly Piquet have announced the birth of their first child, a daughter named Lily, just ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. Verstappen missed Thursday's media activities to be with Piquet but planned to return in time for the race weekend, which features a sprint event and new technical upgrades for Red Bull. The news was met with congratulations from fellow drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, as well as Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and Verstappen's sister, Victoria. Fans online expressed mixed opinions, with some speculating that fatherhood could affect Verstappen's competitive edge, while others suggested it might motivate him further. Verstappen and Piquet, who announced the pregnancy at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, have emphasized that their growing family will not impact his commitment to racing. The couple's announcement, celebrated widely on social media, marks a new chapter for Verstappen personally and professionally as he continues his F1 campaign.