The 2025 Monaco Grand Prix has not only caused a stir on the track, but also off it, with a notable intervention from Kelly Piquet, Max Verstappen’s girlfriend. As the four-time world champion struggles with the performance of his Red Bull car, Piquet recently made three strict requests to the team, with the aim of keeping Verstappen on board for longer. The requests, which were reportedly communicated through private channels, have caught the attention of fans and insiders alike, especially since the second request was unanimously accepted by Red Bull and other parties involved. The situation sheds new light on the dynamic between Verstappen, his partner and the team, amid his recent announcement about a possible break after this season.
Piquet’s initial request is said to be aimed at improving Verstappen’s working conditions. After a difficult weekend in Monaco, where he finished only fourth in FP3 with a 1m12.127—more than 0.772s behind Charles Leclerc—she has reportedly pressed for a more stable car and less pressure from management. Verstappen himself has expressed frustration with the RB21’s balance, particularly on the tight, bumpy streets of Monaco, where Ferrari and McLaren currently dominate. Piquet’s involvement appears to stem from her concern for his welfare, particularly as the couple prepare for the birth of their first child, due in the coming months.
The second request, which was widely accepted, concerns better support for Verstappen’s personal life. Piquet has asked for a more flexible schedule, allowing Verstappen to spend more time with her and their soon-to-be family, particularly during periods away from racing. This proposal has been supported by Red Bull, which recognises that the increasing pressure of the 24-race season in 2025 is taking its toll, even on a champion like Verstappen. The team has agreed to make his presence optional during media days, such as the recent one in Miami, when family commitments take priority. The move has also been welcomed by team advisor Helmut Marko, who calls the balance between performance and personal life crucial for long-term motivation.
The third and most controversial request is said to be about a long-term strategy to secure Verstappen’s career at Red Bull, including guarantees of competitive cars and a stable team. Piquet is said to have demanded that Red Bull invest in new technologies and talent, to prevent Verstappen, as he himself hinted, from looking at rivals such as Mercedes or Ferrari. However, this proposal has met with resistance, especially since Red Bull currently lags behind Ferrari’s aerodynamic innovations and McLaren’s consistent development. Negotiations on this are still ongoing, and it is unclear whether Red Bull is prepared to fully meet these demands.
Piquet’s active role comes as no surprise, given her background as the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet and her own experience in the sport. Her recent social media posts, highlighting her pregnancy and support for Verstappen, demonstrate her commitment. Fans on platforms such as X have had mixed reactions, with some praising her influence as a sign of strength while others see it as undue interference. Verstappen himself has not officially commented on the requests, but his recent statements about a possible break after 2025 suggest he is open to change, possibly influenced by Piquet’s wishes.
As qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix approaches, the focus remains partly on the track, but also on these off-track developments. Red Bull face a crucial test: can they meet Piquet’s demands to keep Verstappen, especially with his superyacht ‘Unleash the Lion’ and his private life attracting more attention than ever? With the race on Sunday 25 May 2025 looming, the outcome of these negotiations could shape the future of one of Formula 1’s brightest talents.
