A Joyful Announcement from the F1 Champion
The Formula 1 world just got a little more heartwarming. On May 1, 2025, reigning World Champion Max Verstappenand his partner Kelly Piquet officially announced the birth of their first child together — a beautiful baby girl named Lily.
This touching news arrived just before the Miami Grand Prix, adding a layer of emotion to an already high-octane week. For Verstappen, a man known for his ice-cold focus on the track, this tender family milestone reveals a softer, more personal side fans rarely see.
Why Fans Are Celebrating Beyond the Racetrack
The F1 community, from devoted fans to rival drivers, erupted in applause and affection online. It’s not every day that the stoic king of Red Bull Racing shares something so heartfelt. And judging by the waves of congratulations flooding social media, baby Lily is already beloved by millions around the world.
Who Are Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet?
A Power Couple in Motorsports and Modeling
Max Verstappen, 27, is a household name in racing, a three-time world champion known for his fierce driving style and dominance in the Red Bull Racing team. His partner, Kelly Piquet, 36, is a model, journalist, and influencer, well respected in the fashion and motorsport circles alike.
Family Legacy: F1 Runs in Their Blood
Piquet isn’t just famous for her own work—she’s the daughter of three-time F1 world champion Nelson Piquet, and was previously in a relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat, with whom she shares her first daughter, Penelope. Now, the Verstappen-Piquet household grows to a happy four.
The Big Reveal: Baby Lily Has Arrived
When and Where She Was Born
Baby Lily was born on Wednesday, May 1, with Verstappen reportedly staying in Monaco with Kelly for the birth. According to PlanetF1, Verstappen delayed his travel to Miami to be present, missing Thursday’s media duties — a move applauded by fans and peers alike.
The Meaning Behind Her Name
The couple revealed their daughter’s name is Lily, a name that symbolizes purity, grace, and renewal. It’s a fitting tribute to new life and fresh beginnings for a couple often in the headlines for their fast-paced lifestyle.
Verstappen’s Emotional Miami Grand Prix Week
From Delivery Room to Pit Lane
With the Miami Grand Prix looming, Verstappen made the decision to fly in just in time for Friday’s practice sessions, showcasing not just commitment to his sport, but to his new role as a father. His team at Red Bull Racing fully supported the delay, emphasizing that “family comes first.”
F1 Schedule Adjustments for Fatherhood
This won’t be the last time Verstappen navigates the balance between parenthood and the paddock. It’s a new kind of race — one involving midnight feedings, diaper changes, and bedtime stories.
The Fans React
Social Media Explodes with Congratulations
News of Lily’s arrival has gone viral, with hashtags like #BabyLily, #TeamVerstappen, and #F1Dad trending worldwide. Fans posted thousands of messages on Instagram and Twitter, celebrating the couple’s new journey and sharing memes of “Mini Max” joining the Red Bull garage.
Messages from Fellow Drivers and Teams
Fellow drivers, including Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, and Lewis Hamilton, offered their congratulations. The Mercedes-AMG F1 team tweeted, “From rival to role model—welcome to the world, Baby Lily!”
What This Means for Verstappen Off the Track
Balancing Racing and Family Life
While Verstappen remains laser-focused on his championship title, fatherhood may shift his perspective. In past interviews, he’s hinted at a desire to one day slow down and enjoy life beyond the wheel — something Red Bull fans will now watch more closely.
Insights from Other F1 Fathers
He joins a long list of F1 dads, from Sebastian Vettel to Fernando Alonso, who’ve found new joy — and challenges — in balancing family with the world’s most demanding sport.
