The Formula 1 world has just been shaken by a heartwarming and emotional moment that has touched the hearts of fans worldwide. Just ten minutes ago, it was confirmed that Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, has become a father for the first time with partner Kelly Piquet. In an intimate moment that quickly went viral, Verstappen couldn’t hold back his tears as he cradled his newborn baby at a hospital in Monaco. The Dutch driver, who is often praised for his unwavering focus on the track, showed an unprecedented soft side that deeply moved the Formula 1 community. At the same time, he surprised everyone with a major announcement that he will share during the upcoming race weekend in Miami, further building the anticipation for his performance both on and off the track.

The news of the birth was first hinted at when Verstappen’s private jet, which had previously been in Nice earlier in the day, suddenly headed toward the United States. Red Bull Racing later confirmed that the driver had skipped the media day in Miami to be present for the birth, but would arrive on Friday for free practice. While the team did not share official details about the birth, sources close to the couple leaked that Kelly Piquet had given birth in the early morning hours. A photo, shared on social media by a family member, showed Verstappen with teary eyes as he rocked his baby, an image that was quickly picked up worldwide. Fans reacted en masse with congratulations, with many praising the driver for showing his human side in a sport that often revolves around speed and rivalry.

Kelly Piquet, who already has a daughter from a previous relationship, had previously hinted at the arrival of the baby. In a recent Instagram post, she mentioned that she was in her third trimester, which indicated a birth sometime between February and April 2025. The timing appears to have worked out perfectly, just before the start of the Formula 1 season, which begins on March 16 in Australia. Verstappen himself recently spoke about his impending fatherhood in a podcast, where he said that his experience with Piquet’s daughter Penelope had already given him some preparation. “It’s exciting, but I know the baby is in good hands,” he said, referring to their close family. The birth marks a new chapter for the couple, who have been together since 2021 and share impressive racing DNA with Kelly’s father, three-time world champion Nelson Piquet.

What makes the story even more intriguing is Verstappen’s unexpected announcement that he will make during the race weekend in Miami. While details are still scarce, sources suggest that it could be a personal decision that may affect his future in Formula 1. Earlier this year, Verstappen spoke about balancing his career and private life, hinting that he might want to race less to spend more time with his family. These words, combined with his emotional reaction to the birth, have sparked speculation about a possible sabbatical or even an early retirement. However, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner denied that Verstappen will leave the team, emphasizing that the driver will return to the circuit “stronger than ever.”

As Verstappen prepares for the Miami Grand Prix, where he has already won twice before, the focus remains partly on his new role as a father. His rivals, including McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, have sent their congratulations, with Norris joking that Verstappen “will really get sleepless nights now.” Despite the joyful circumstances, the Dutchman is under pressure to revive his season, which so far has only seen one win. Whether he is holding his baby in Monaco or climbing the podium in Miami, Verstappen remains an inspiration. The Formula 1 world eagerly awaits his announcement and celebrates this special moment in his life.