Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has surprised the world with a personal revelation about his girlfriend Kelly Piquet that has caught the attention of fans and media alike. During a recent press conference following the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Verstappen was given a controversial five-second penalty, the Dutchman unexpectedly opened up about his private life. In a rare moment of candor, he shared details about his relationship with Piquet and their future plans, including a hint at a possible engagement. The revelation, a departure from his usual focus on racing, left everyone stunned and sparked speculation on social media and in 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, the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet, is a familiar face at race weekends, often spotted at Verstappen’s side along with her daughter Penelope, from a previous relationship with racing driver Daniil Kvyat. The couple live together in Monaco, where they form a close-knit family with Penelope and their pets. In December 2024, they announced big news: they are expecting their first child together in 2025. But Verstappen’s recent statements go beyond this announcement and suggest a deeper commitment.
During the press conference, which initially focused on his battle with Oscar Piastri and the FIA regulations, Verstappen surprised journalists by answering a question about his private life. “It’s time to tell everything,” he began with a smile. “Kelly and I have been together for a while, and she’s my rock. I’m thinking about taking the next step.” Although he didn’t explicitly mention a marriage proposal, many interpreted his words as a hint towards an engagement. He added: “With a baby on the way and Penelope in our lives, it feels like the right time to plan our future.” This openness is unusual for Verstappen, who usually keeps his private life private.
The response was immediate and overwhelming. On platforms like X, fans went wild with speculation about an impending nuptials, with hashtags like #MaxAndKelly trending. Some fans praised Verstappen’s maturity, while others joked about how, just like on the track, he doesn’t do things halfway in his relationship. Kelly Piquet herself shared a cryptic Instagram post shortly after the press conference, featuring a photo of the couple and the caption: “Together forever, whatever comes.” This further fueled the rumors, although she didn’t directly confirm it. Her followers noted that she was wearing a ring, leading to wild speculation about a secret proposal.
The timing of Verstappen’s revelation is notable given the recent tensions in his professional life. The Jeddah punishment, his father Jos’s criticism of the FIA, and the ongoing championship battle with drivers such as Piastri have put him under pressure. Yet his relationship with Piquet appears to be a source of stability. In previous interviews, Verstappen has praised her as someone who helps him unwind after the chaos of Formula 1. “At home I can be myself,” he once said. “Kelly and Penelope make everything lighter.” It contrasts with previous rumours of relationship trouble, 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 Formula 1 community, accustomed to Verstappen’s focus on speed and strategy, is seeing a new side to the driver. Former driver Nico Rosberg called it “refreshing” to see Verstappen so open, while Red Bull team boss Christian Horner joked: “Maybe he’s planning a pit stop for a wedding.” As the season rumbles on and Verstappen chases a fifth title, his private life continues to be a source of fascination. Whether an engagement is actually imminent remains unconfirmed, but one thing is certain: Verstappen’s words have shown the world that, as well as being a champion on the track, he is also a man ready for the next phase of his life.
