Max Verstappen has unexpectedly missed his media duties ahead of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix amid baby speculation, with Red Bull confirming the absence relates to the expected birth of his first child with partner Kelly Piquet.
The four-time world champion was not present at the track for Thursday’s traditional pre-weekend press commitments — an absence usually only granted in cases of illness or emergencies. Red Bull released a brief but telling statement explaining Verstappen’s whereabouts.
“Max [Verstappen] will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby. All is well and he will attend track tomorrow for the race weekend,” the statement read. “We will not be offering any further comment at this time in respect towards the privacy of Max and his family.”
Flight tracker data showing Verstappen’s private jet departing Nice, France, early Thursday has only intensified speculation that girlfriend Kelly Piquet may have already given birth, though no official announcement has been made.
The couple confirmed they were expecting in a joint Instagram post in 2024, saying: “Mini Verstappen-Piquet on the way” alongside an image of Kelly’s baby bump.
Family life takes centre stage ahead of Miami GP
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Verstappen has spoken previously about the excitement of expanding his family, especially as he’s already taken on a parenting role with Penelope, Kelly Piquet’s daughter from her previous relationship with Daniil Kvyat.
“I’m already kind of a bonus dad,” Verstappen said last season. “But I’m still very excited for sure.”
Fans have also noticed clues about the baby’s gender. A recent baby shower hosted aboard Verstappen’s new yacht featured pink decorations, hinting the couple could be welcoming a girl.
Despite the major life event, Verstappen has remained adamant that his racing mindset won’t change.
“Honestly I have done it already, so it is not like it is completely new for me,” Verstappen explained.
“Now it is my DNA, let’s say it like that, but I think it is absolutely fine and I know the baby will be in good hands anyway. So for me, you focus on your racing and then go back to your family.”
He also dismissed any chance of taking a sabbatical: “No, I never considered taking a year out. It is not on my mind.”
Verstappen, 26, has been dating Piquet — the daughter of three-time F1 world champion Nelson Piquet — since 2020. Their child would be born into a family tree that includes seven world titles between Max and Kelly’s father.
The reigning champion is expected to be back on track Friday for Free Practice and Sprint Qualifying at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, which is the sixth round of the Formula 1 season.
Is Max Verstappen attending the 2025 Miami Grand Prix?
Yes, Max Verstappen is expected to attend the race weekend. However, he missed media day due to the imminent birth of his child.
Has Max Verstappen become a father?
Red Bull has not confirmed if the baby has arrived yet. Verstappen’s absence and private flight from Nice suggest the birth may have occurred.
Who is Max Verstappen’s partner?
Max Verstappen is in a relationship with Kelly Piquet, the daughter of F1 legend Nelson Piquet. The couple has been together since 2020.
Will Max Verstappen take a break from F1 after becoming a father?
No, Verstappen has confirmed he will not take a year off and plans to continue racing while balancing his new family role.
What did Red Bull say about Verstappen missing media day?
Red Bull stated: “Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby… All is well and he will attend track tomorrow.”
