Max Verstappen Baby Update: Red Bull Star Skips Miami GP Media Day as First Child A… read more
As the Formula 1 world gears up for the Miami Grand Prix this weekend, all eyes are not just on the track but also on Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen, who is expecting his first child with partner Kelly Piquet. The three-time world champion was notably absent from Thursday’s pre-race press conferences, sparking speculation among fans and pundits. Red Bull quickly moved to clear the air, issuing a formal update on his absence.
In an official statement, Red Bull confirmed that Verstappen skipped the media day in Miami due to the imminent arrival of his baby. “Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby,” the team shared. “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.”
The announcement comes amid growing anticipation around the birth of “Baby Verstappen,” marking a new chapter in the Dutch driver’s life. Verstappen, known for his fierce competitiveness and straightforward manner, has previously expressed excitement about becoming a father. He has also joked about the challenges that lie ahead, especially when it comes to coping with sleepless nights during the F1 season.
Despite his absence from the media rounds, Verstappen remains on track to participate in the Miami Grand Prix. Under Formula 1’s rotating system, different drivers are selected to appear in front of the press ahead of race weekends, and this time, Verstappen was not among those chosen. This alleviated any major disruption, as Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, George Russell, and Yuki Tsunoda were among the featured names for the press sessions.
Verstappen’s most recent media appearance was after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where emotions ran high. A controversial five-second penalty handed to him early in the race cost him the lead, allowing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri to clinch his third win of the season and overtake Verstappen in the drivers’ championship standings. Frustrated by the decision, Verstappen refused to delve into the matter publicly, stating it was better not to comment—especially for the sake of the FIA, Formula 1’s governing body.
This wasn’t the first time Verstappen found himself at odds with the FIA. The Dutchman has previously criticized the organization for what he sees as excessive regulation, including its stance on driver language. Verstappen received a community service-style punishment last year for using foul language and later expressed disapproval of attempts to restrict drivers from swearing.
However, any lingering grievances with the FIA appear to have taken a backseat as Verstappen prepares to embrace fatherhood. The 64-time Grand Prix winner has made it clear that his focus, at least for now, is on his growing family. Speculation had circulated that Verstappen might miss some races to be present for the birth, but he has since dismissed those rumors, stating that he has no plans to skip any races.
Heading into the Miami GP, Verstappen currently sits third in the championship standings—a somewhat unusual position given his dominant performances in previous seasons. The 2025 season has presented more challenges than anticipated for Red Bull, with rivals like McLaren and Ferrari closing the performance gap. Verstappen has managed only one win so far, and the Miami race offers a crucial opportunity to gain momentum and climb back to the top.
Despite the slower start, Verstappen remains a formidable contender. His experience, combined with Red Bull’s technical capabilities, means he can never be counted out. But as he navigates the demanding world of Formula 1 and the joys of impending fatherhood, Verstappen appears more grounded than ever.
For fans, the next few days will be filled with both racing excitement and curiosity over the baby news. With Verstappen confirmed to be on track in Miami, Red Bull supporters can rest assured that their star driver is balancing his professional and personal life with characteristic composure.
As the lights go out in Miami this weekend, Verstappen will aim to shift focus back to racing and secure a vital win in what has been a rollercoaster season—while awaiting the biggest win of all: becoming a father.
