Max Verstappen Delays Flight for Miami Grand Prix Amid Paternity Speculations

Miami, Florida – Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen delayed his flight to Miami for the Grand Prix, fueling rumors about the upcoming birth of his first child with girlfriend Kelly Piquet. The speculation arose as Verstappen missed a media day associated with the race weekend.

While the arrival of the baby has not been officially confirmed, fellow driver Gabriel Bortoleto commented on the situation at the paddock in Miami. “No, I’ve not spoken to him in the last days, to be honest,” said Bortoleto when asked about any conversation with Verstappen regarding fatherhood. “But I’m sure it will not change anything in his life being a father. I mean on the sense of a racing driver. He will not go slower, probably even quicker. He doesn’t change, you know, his mentality is that one. To go for it.”

The speculation intensified as Verstappen’s jet remained at its home base in Nice, with two possible explanations: either Piquet had gone into labor, or their child had already been born. Red Bull officially confirmed that Verstappen would skip his media obligations due to expecting a child with Piquet.

In the paddock, Verstappen’s rivals, including George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, expressed their congratulations upon hearing the news. Russell noted that many drivers, including champions, have successfully competed after becoming fathers.

As preparations begin for the weekend, all eyes will be on Verstappen as he participates in practice sessions and qualifying. On Saturday, he will address media inquiries about his family’s significant life change, while the racing action continues at the Grand Prix.