Ahead of the start of the weekend's Miami Grand Prix, 4-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen took a flight to Nice, France, as he is expecting his first child with his partner Kelly Piquet. Subsequently, it was announced that the reigning champion would be missing the media day. Amid the development, the fans are concerned about Verstappen's participation in the Miami GP.
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Max Verstappen to Participate in Miami Grand Prix
Allaying the concerns, it has been reported that Verstappen has boarded a private jet from Nice, and he is on his way to Miami to take part in the race.
“Max [Verstappen] will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby," a statement from the team read. "All is well and he will attend track tomorrow for the race weekend. We will not be offering any further comment at this time in respect towards the privacy of Max and his family.”
With the driver heading to Florida, it's likely that four-time champion Max Verstappen and his partner, Kelly Piquet, have welcomed their baby. Although there's no official announcement, the circumstances strongly suggest this.
This would be Piquet's second child, as she already has a daughter, Penelope, from her previous relationship with Formula 1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Verstappen has taken on a fatherly role for Penelope, calling himself her "bonus dad."
Hints suggest the new baby might be a girl, following a pink-themed baby shower on Verstappen's yacht. While the couple hasn't confirmed the baby's gender, the decorations imply they're expecting another daughter.
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What Will Be Max Verstappen's Outlook to Racing After Becoming a Father?
Verstappen has conveyed in the past that he won't be changing his approach to racing when he becomes a dad.
"Honestly I have done it already, so it is not like it is completely new for me," he admitted. "Now it is my DNA, let’s say it like that, but I think it is absolutely fine and I know the baby will be in good hands anyway. So for me, you focus on your racing and then go back to your family."
He further confirmed that he won't be taking time out, either. "No, I never considered taking a year out. It is not on my mind." He further confirmed that the baby might not follow in his footsteps as a racing driver. "Well, if he or she wants to do it and I see that there is talent I would support it, of course, naturally. But I really hope not! No pressure, just live your life."