Max Verstappen Gives Rare Insight on Navigating Parenthood with Longtime Girlfriend Kelly Piquet (Exclusive)

**Max Verstappen Embraces New Role as a Father Following Birth of Daughter Lily**

Max Verstappen, the celebrated four-time Formula 1 World Champion driving for Oracle Red Bull Racing, is relishing his new role as a father to his daughter, Lily, born in May 2025. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 28-year-old Dutch driver opened up about the significant changes he has experienced in his life since embracing fatherhood alongside his long-term partner, Kelly Piquet, 37.

During the recent Miami Grand Prix, Verstappen expressed how welcomed the transition into fatherhood has been for him. It is a role he has always desired, and he has found that it has profoundly altered his priorities. “For me, it’s just really nice to be able to spend time now together,” Verstappen stated from the Red Bull Energy Station, just days before the Grand Prix. He conveyed a sentiment of joy and contentment about being at home, stressing that while racing is thrilling, his family life now holds even greater importance.

The relationship between Verstappen and Piquet became public in 2020, and together they share not only their newborn daughter but also Piquet’s daughter, Penelope, from her previous relationship with fellow F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Verstappen reflected on his experiences since Lily’s arrival, mentioning that he has not encountered any significant surprises in his new role. Instead, he embraces it wholeheartedly, remarking, “I mean, it’s just great to be able to spend time at home.”

The dynamics within the Verstappen-Piquet household showcase a blend of love and warmth, highlighting Verstappen’s commitment to being an engaged parent. He remarked fondly about Lily’s apparent affection for him, saying, “She seems to like me a lot, so that’s good.” These shared moments are precious for Verstappen, who noted the importance of quality time with his family amid the hectic Formula 1 schedule.

As the 2026 racing season unfolds, Verstappen is dedicated to maintaining a balance between his professional commitments and family life. The season commenced in March with the Australian Grand Prix and is set to conclude in December in Abu Dhabi. Despite the demanding nature of his career, Verstappen takes a measured approach following race weekends, emphasising the need to prioritise family time more than he previously did.

The impact of fatherhood has prompted Verstappen to reassess various aspects of his life and career. He acknowledges that this experience fosters a deeper understanding of the sport he has loved since childhood, especially given his family’s rich racing heritage. His father, Jos Verstappen, competed in Formula One from 1994 to 2003, while his mother, Sophie Kumpen, was a formidable karting competitor. Now, as a father himself, Verstappen finds himself reflecting on the duality of his experiences as both a son and now a parent.

Reflecting on his relationship with his father, Verstappen expressed a shared sentimental journey. “It’s probably more nerve-wracking as a parent,” he admitted, but it is also a unique privilege that he is grateful for. He views the journey of racing and fatherhood as intertwined, offering a narrative that he cherishes deeply. “It’s probably something that we will think about and cherish for life.”

Verstappen’s competitive spirit remains strong as he looks forward to future races while simultaneously prioritising his role as a father. He is sincere in his intent to enjoy this phase of life, stating, “I know what I want. I know I also want to take my private time.” This dedication to family encapsulates a refreshing side to the high-performance lifestyle that is often associated with professional racing.

In entering this new chapter, Max Verstappen is not only carving a path for himself in the world of Formula 1 but is also embracing the joyful responsibilities of fatherhood — cultivating a legacy that intertwines both his passion for racing and his love for family. As the season continues, fans and followers of Verstappen will undoubtedly witness not only his prowess on the track but also the softer side that comes with being a doting father.