Max Verstappen to Miss Miami GP Media Day Due to Im… Read More
Max Verstappen will not be present for media duties ahead of the Miami Grand Prix but remains confirmed to race at the Miami International Autodrome this weekend. The Red Bull Racing team has clarified that the reigning four-time Formula 1 world champion is currently awaiting the birth of his first child, which has delayed his departure for the United States.
On Thursday afternoon, Verstappen’s private jet, a Falcon 8X, was still located in Nice, France — the nearest airport to his Monaco residence — prompting speculation regarding his travel plans. The absence led to questions about whether he would arrive in Miami in time for the Grand Prix weekend. However, Red Bull issued a formal statement addressing the situation and putting any doubts to rest.
The team announced: “Hi all, please note that Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby. 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.”
Verstappen’s partner, Kelly Piquet, is reportedly due to give birth soon. She is already a mother to a daughter, Penelope, from a previous relationship. While the official due date was believed to be sometime next week, indications suggest that the couple may welcome their new arrival slightly ahead of schedule.
Despite skipping media obligations, Verstappen is still scheduled to participate in the full race weekend, including Friday’s sprint activities. His absence from pre-race interviews and press conferences is not expected to affect his performance or preparations for the event.
The timing of this major personal milestone comes in the midst of an intense battle for the 2025 Formula 1 World Championship. Verstappen, who has won 64 Grands Prix in his career, currently trails McLaren rivals Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the standings. Piastri leads the championship by 12 points over Verstappen, while Norris is just 10 points ahead. The Miami GP marks the second of six sprint events this season, adding an extra layer of pressure for the top contenders.
As the Red Bull star balances impending fatherhood with his championship campaign, fans and the F1 paddock have expressed understanding and support. The team’s call for privacy reflects the personal significance of this moment for Verstappen and his family. He is expected to join the rest of the grid on track starting Friday, as focus returns to racing following a brief pause for a life-changing event.
