Max Verstappen’s Mother Once Revealed That He Surprised Her with a Special Omega Car on Mother’s Day

Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, is renowned for his relentless drive and precision on the track. However, beyond the high-octane world of motorsport, Verstappen has shown a softer, more personal side, particularly in his relationship with his mother, Sophie Kumpen. In a heartwarming revelation from 2016, Kumpen shared a touching story of how her son surprised her with a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift—a car from the luxury brand Omega. This gesture not only highlighted Verstappen’s deep appreciation for his mother but also showcased the close bond they share, rooted in a shared passion for racing and unwavering familial support.

Sophie Kumpen, a former karting prodigy who competed against the likes of Jenson Button and Giancarlo Fisichella, has been a pivotal figure in Verstappen’s life. While his father, Jos Verstappen, a former F1 driver, is often credited for shaping Max’s competitive edge, Sophie’s influence is equally significant. She provided emotional support and instilled a sense of humility in her son, qualities that shine through in his off-track persona. In a 2016 interview, Kumpen recounted how Max, then an emerging talent in Formula 1, surprised her with a car on Mother’s Day. “He suddenly showed up at the door,” she recalled. “He knew I was looking for a new small car. He took me to the garage that day and bought me a car. He said: ‘Mum, for everything you’ve done for me.’” The car, described as an Omega, was a symbol of gratitude for her sacrifices, including stepping away from her own promising racing career to support her children.

This Mother’s Day surprise was not an isolated act of kindness. Verstappen’s thoughtfulness extends to his family, as evidenced by similar gestures toward his sister, Victoria. Kumpen noted in the same interview that Max once fulfilled Victoria’s wish to see him race in Bahrain, promptly arranging her travel with a simple, “Your ticket is ready, sister.” Such acts reflect a grounded personality, contrasting with the fierce competitor seen on the track. Despite his wealth and fame—bolstered by a lucrative Red Bull contract—Verstappen remains frugal, a trait Kumpen emphasized in her anecdote. The choice of an Omega car, practical yet meaningful, underscores his careful approach to spending while prioritizing heartfelt gestures.

Kumpen’s own racing legacy adds depth to this story. A talented kart racer, she was praised by figures like Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, who ranked her among the top ten karting talents of her time. Eddie Jordan, a former F1 team owner, even suggested that Sophie had the potential to reach Formula 1, had opportunities for female drivers been more accessible. Her decision to prioritize family over her career allowed Max to pursue his dreams, a sacrifice he clearly acknowledges through actions like the Mother’s Day gift. This dynamic highlights the Verstappen family’s deep connection to motorsport, with both parents passing down their passion and skill to their son.

The Mother’s Day gesture also sheds light on Verstappen’s ability to balance his intense professional life with personal relationships. In 2025, as he celebrated his fourth consecutive F1 title in Las Vegas, Verstappen’s family remained a cornerstone of his success. Sophie, often seen supporting him from the paddock or through her unique pre-race ritual of lighting a candle for his safety, continues to play a vital role. This ritual, which began in 2016 after Max’s first Red Bull win, reflects her unwavering belief in her son’s abilities, even if Max playfully teases her about it. “I have sort of a, not really a religion, but you burn a candle for something that has to go well,” she explained in a documentary, a practice she maintains to this day.

Verstappen’s gesture in 2016 resonates as a testament to his character. While the world sees him as a dominant force in Formula 1, stories like the Omega car surprise reveal a son who values his roots. The car, a tangible expression of gratitude, symbolizes the sacrifices Sophie made and the love that binds their family. As Verstappen continues to break records, his mother’s influence remains a quiet but powerful force, grounding him amidst the whirlwind of fame. This Mother’s Day story, though from years past, continues to endear him to fans, offering a glimpse into the man behind the helmet—a champion on and off the track.