Max Verstappen, the multiple Formula 1 World Champion, has made Monaco his primary residence since 2015, the year of his debut in the sport. He initially established his home in the luxurious Fontvieille district of the principality.
This area is known for its waterfront properties and offers residents views across the harbor.
Verstappen’s move to Monaco occurred shortly after he became the youngest driver to start a Formula 1 race. His decision to reside in the Mediterranean principality aligns with a long-standing tradition among elite motorsport professionals.
Max Verstappen’s monaco residence and family life
Max Verstappen currently resides in the exclusive Le Renzo residential complex, located within Monaco’s newly developed Mareterra district. He moved into this ultra-luxurious complex in 2025, following the completion of the Mareterra project at the end of 2024.
The Mareterra district is a significant expansion of Monaco, built directly on the sea, increasing the principality’s size by three percent. Le Renzo overlooks the Petit Portier harbor and the Mediterranean Sea, offering stunning views.
Verstappen shares his Monaco home with his partner, Kelly Piquet, and their family. This includes Kelly’s daughter, Penelope, from a previous relationship, and their shared daughter, Lily, who was born in 2025.
The Le Renzo complex was designed by the renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano and is inspired by the bow of a ship. It features 47 apartments, including duplexes, triplexes, and penthouses.
Properties within Le Renzo are among the most expensive globally, with apartments reportedly listed from approximately €65 million to €76.8 million. These residences offer extensive living spaces, such as 528 square meters of living area and 151 square meters of terraces.
Residents of Le Renzo have access to a wide array of shared amenities, including a 24/7 concierge service, secured access, and valet parking. The complex also provides fitness rooms, saunas, massage rooms, and other wellness facilities.
Beyond his Monaco residence, Max Verstappen also owns a villa at The Thermal Club, a private motorsport resort near Palm Springs, California. This property is valued at approximately $7 million and is situated within an exclusive community built around a private racing circuit.
Why Formula 1 drivers choose monaco residency
Monaco has long been a preferred residential hub for Formula 1 drivers, primarily due to its highly advantageous financial policies. The principality imposes zero personal income tax on its residents, a significant benefit for individuals earning multi-million-dollar salaries.
In addition to the absence of personal income tax, Monaco residents are not subject to wealth tax, capital gains tax, property tax, or local taxes. This comprehensive tax efficiency plays a major role in the financial planning and wealth preservation for high-net-worth individuals like F1 drivers.
The financial savings for drivers can be substantial; for instance, a driver earning $30 million per year could save an estimated $13.5 million annually compared to residing in a country like the UK, which has a top tax rate of 45%. Max Verstappen’s annual tax savings are reported to exceed $30 million.
It is important to note that while Monaco eliminates the home-country tax burden, drivers are still required to pay taxes on income earned in the specific country where each race takes place. Monaco residency primarily addresses the tax obligations on their global earnings and sponsorships.
Lifestyle and logistical benefits for F1 professionals
Beyond the financial incentives, Monaco offers a unique combination of lifestyle and logistical advantages that appeal to Formula 1 drivers. The principality is renowned for its high level of personal safety and privacy, which is important for globally recognized athletes.
Monaco’s central location within Europe provides excellent connectivity for drivers who frequently travel for races. It is conveniently located approximately 20 minutes from Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, facilitating easy access to most European circuits.
The compact nature of Monaco reduces daily commuting times and stress, allowing drivers to focus on training, rest, and race preparation. The presence of many other F1 drivers and high-profile individuals creates a familiar social environment.
The Mediterranean climate, luxurious amenities, and vibrant social scene further enhance Monaco’s appeal as a residential choice. These factors contribute to a stable home base that supports drivers’ careers and personal lives.
Formula 1 drivers residing in monaco in 2026
Monaco remains the most popular residential base for Formula 1 drivers, with more than half of the 2026 grid calling the principality home. This concentration of elite athletes fosters a unique community among competitors.
Several prominent drivers, including multiple world champions and rising stars, have chosen Monaco for its blend of financial, lifestyle, and logistical benefits. Charles Leclerc, being a Monegasque national, is a lifelong resident.
| Driver | Team (2026) | Monaco Resident Since |
|---|---|---|
| Max Verstappen | Red Bull | 2015 |
| Lewis Hamilton | Ferrari | 2012 |
| Charles Leclerc | Ferrari | Born there |
| Lando Norris | McLaren | 2022 |
| Oscar Piastri | McLaren | 2024 |
| George Russell | Mercedes | ~2023 |
| Carlos Sainz | Williams | 2024 |
| Alex Albon | Williams | Confirmed |
| Nico Hulkenberg | Audi | Confirmed |
| Oliver Bearman | Haas | Recent move |
| Gabriel Bortoleto | Audi | Recent move |
| Franco Colapinto | Alpine | Recent move |
Liam Lawson is also reported to be a Monaco resident, further expanding the list of drivers based in the principality. This high concentration of F1 talent underscores Monaco’s enduring appeal.
Residency requirements and exceptions for F1 drivers
To qualify for Monaco’s zero-tax status, individuals, including Formula 1 drivers, must establish legal residency. This typically requires spending at least half the year in Monaco and registering with local authorities.
However, a notable exception exists for French citizens due to a bilateral treaty between France and Monaco established in 1963. This treaty stipulates that French nationals residing in Monaco remain taxable on their income by the French government.
Consequently, French drivers such as Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly do not benefit from Monaco’s tax-free status, even if they were to reside there. This explains why these drivers have chosen other locations, with Ocon living in Geneva, Switzerland, and Gasly in Milan, Italy.
Other F1 drivers choose different countries for residency, such as Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll in Switzerland, which offers favorable lump-sum taxation arrangements. Yuki Tsunoda resides in Faenza, Italy, to enhance his integration with his team.
