Verstappen insists fatherhood won’t change racing ambitions

Max Verstappen has dismissed speculation that becoming a father will impact his approach for Formula 1 or impact his racing career.

The four-time world champion, who has often spoken about stepping away from the sport before his mid-30s, remains fully focused on his racing ambitions, even as he prepares for a new chapter in his personal life.

Verstappen and his partner, Kelly Piquet, recently announced they are expecting their first child together. The Dutchman has already been a father figure to Piquet’s daughter from her previous relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat, and he feels well-prepared for parenthood.

“Honestly, I have done it already, so it is not like it is completely new for me,” Verstappen said, referencing his experience helping raise Kelly’s first child.

“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.”

• Read also: Verstappen admits wild slide in Abu Dhabi Q3 was ‘quite spicy'

Despite the milestone event, Verstappen dismissed the notion of stepping back from F1, either temporarily or permanently, because of his growing family.

When asked whether he had ever considered taking a year off, the Red Bull driver’s response was emphatic.

“No, I never considered taking a year out. It is not on my mind,” Verstappen said.

As a product of a highly disciplined upbringing by his father, Jos Verstappen, Max has become one of the most dominant drivers in F1 history.

However, when asked about the possibility of his child following in his footsteps, Verstappen was lighthearted but firm in expressing his hopes for a different path.

“Well, if he or she wants to do it and I see that there is talent, I would support it, of course, naturally,” he said. “But I really hope not! No pressure, just live your life.”

While his father Jos was instrumental in his rapid ascent to Formula 1, Max seems inclined to allow his child to choose their own direction, free from external pressure.

Away from personal milestones, Verstappen remains focused on racing as he wraps up a historic season in Abu Dhabi.

The Dutchman, who clinched his fourth consecutive drivers’ title earlier this year, has also been at the center of controversies, including a heated exchange with Mercedes driver George Russell after an incident during the Qatar Grand Prix.

Verstappen was quick to shut down any further discussion of the matter this weekend.

“I haven’t really talked to [George], but I honestly don't really want to talk about it anymore,” he said. “It is not really necessary anymore as everything has been said. I am just looking forward to a break.”

Verstappen’s outlook remains unchanged as he heads into the final race of the season. Despite speculation about his long-term plans, his focus on racing excellence is undimmed, even as his personal life evolves.

With his Red Bull contract running through 2028, Verstappen has hinted at a potential exit from the sport at that time. But for now, he’s intent on balancing his growing family with the relentless pursuit of victory on the track.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and X