Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 World Champion, has stunned the world with a personal revelation about his girlfriend Kelly Piquet, capturing the attention of fans and media alike.
During a recent press conference after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix—where Verstappen received a five-second penalty—the Dutch driver unexpectedly opened up about his private life. In a rare candid moment, he shared details about his relationship with Piquet and their future plans, including a hint at a possible engagement. These words, deviating from his usual race-focused demeanor, left everyone astonished and sparked a wave of speculation across social media and the press.
Verstappen and Piquet have been a couple since late 2020, and their relationship has become one of the most talked-about in the Formula 1 paddock. Kelly, daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet, is a familiar face during race weekends, often seen by Verstappen’s side along with her daughter Penelope, whom she had from a previous relationship with driver Daniil Kvyat. The couple lives together in Monaco, forming a close-knit family with Penelope and their pets. In December 2024, they announced major news: they are expecting their first child together in 2025. But Verstappen’s recent statements go beyond that announcement and suggest a deeper level of commitment.
During the press conference, which was initially focused on his battle with Oscar Piastri and FIA regulations, Verstappen surprised reporters by answering a question about his private life.
“It’s time to say it all,” he began with a smile. “Kelly and I have been together for a while, and she’s my rock through the waves. I’m thinking about taking the next step.”
Although he didn’t explicitly mention a marriage proposal, many interpreted his words as a hint at an engagement. He added:
“With a baby on the way and Penelope in our lives, it feels like the right time to plan for our future.”
This level of openness is unusual for Verstappen, who typically guards his personal life closely.
The reactions were immediate and overwhelming. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans erupted with speculation about an upcoming wedding, with hashtags like #maxandkelly trending quickly. Some praised Verstappen’s maturity, while others joked that—just like in racing—he doesn’t do things halfway in relationships either. Kelly Piquet herself shared a cryptic Instagram post shortly after the press conference, featuring a photo of the couple with the caption:
“Together forever, whatever comes next.”
This only fueled further speculation, especially as followers noticed she was wearing a ring, sparking wild rumors about a secret proposal.
The timing of Verstappen’s revelation is surprising, given the recent tensions in his professional life. The penalty in Jeddah, his father Jos Verstappen’s criticisms of the FIA, and his ongoing battle for the championship with rivals like Piastri have added pressure. Yet, his relationship with Piquet seems to be a source of stability. In previous interviews, Verstappen praised her as someone who helps him unwind after the chaos of Formula 1:
“I can feel at home,” he once said. “Kelly and Penelope make everything lighter.”
This contrasts with earlier rumors of relationship issues, which circulated in 2022 when Piquet was absent from several races. At the time, the couple denied the speculation, and their bond now appears stronger than ever.
The F1 community, used to focusing on Verstappen’s speed and strategy, is now witnessing a new side of the champion. Former driver Nico Rosberg called it “refreshing” to see Verstappen being so open, while Red Bull team principal Christian Horner joked,
“Maybe he’s planning a pit stop for a wedding.”
As the season continues in pursuit of his fifth world title, Verstappen’s personal life remains a point of fascination. Whether an engagement is indeed imminent remains unconfirmed, but one thing is certain: Verstappen’s words have shown the world that he’s not only a champion on the track but also a man ready for the next chapter of his life.
