Kelly Piquet has provided insight into the private life of four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen, detailing his focus on family away from the race track. Piquet, daughter of three-time F1 world champion Nelson Piquet, recently spoke about their relationship and home environment.
The couple, who reside in Monaco with their two daughters, first met in 2016. They began dating in 2020 and made their relationship public in 2021. Piquet, 37, is nine years older than Verstappen, who is 28 years old this season.
Piquet became a mother in July 2019 with the birth of her daughter Penelope, from a previous relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Max and Kelly welcomed their daughter, Lily, in May 2025.
Verstappen has been noted for his close relationship with Penelope, with Piquet describing him as a ‘kind and caring stepfather figure’. He has also openly discussed the challenges of balancing fatherhood with his demanding F1 career.
Piquet describes their relationship as ‘healthy, easygoing, with a lot of understanding and support’. She has stated that she did not intentionally seek an F1 driver as a partner, noting it ‘wasn’t planned on purpose’.
She emphasizes Verstappen’s grounded personality, stating he is a ‘complete homebody’ who prioritizes returning home after racing commitments. This focus on stability is maintained through careful selection of her own professional engagements.
The couple has faced online criticism regarding their age difference, which both Piquet and Verstappen have publicly addressed. Verstappen has defended Piquet against online abuse, emphasizing the importance of family and truth.
Verstappen has adjusted his travel schedule for Grands Prix, leaving as late as possible and returning promptly to maximize family time. He has shared that leaving his daughter Lily at home for races is becoming increasingly difficult.
Piquet believes that relationships within Formula 1 have evolved positively, fostering more openness, camaraderie, and mutual respect. She highlights the importance of balance in the intense F1 environment.
During the current 2026 season, Verstappen’s campaign has been described as less competitive than previous years. He is currently not a primary focus in the title race and faces uncertainty regarding his Red Bull contract beyond 2028.
Despite the pressures of his professional career, Verstappen credits fatherhood with providing him a sense of balance and perspective. He views himself as a normal person who enjoys spending time with his family away from the paddock.
‘Max is the kind of guy who goes out, gets his work done, and then comes home. He’s a complete homebody who truly enjoys spending time with his family,’ Piquet stated.
