Max and Kelly kick off 2021 in the tropics

©Instagram

The romantic relationship between Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet was an open secret in the F1 paddock in 2020 but the young couple took the opportunity of the New Year to officialize their tie-up.

With the winter break now in full swing, Verstappen joined Kelly - the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet - at her family's holiday home at Lençóis Maranhenses, a protected area located on Brazil's north Atlantic coast.

"Happy New Year everyone! 🥳🥳🥳," Max wrote on Instagram. "Let’s make 2021 a year to remember in many ways. Wishing you all success, love and happiness just as I found mine ❤️."

That’s likely another tenth gained on the stop watch by the Red Bull charger this season!

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.