May 4 (GMM) Fatherhood has not slowed Max Verstappen down, his boss but also his championship rival insist.
Despite sitting out Thursday’s proceedings in Miami in order to spend precious extra time with the newly-born Lily in Monaco, the quadruple world champion recovered from a difficult sprint race to take pole for the Miami GP.
“I was hoping he was going to slow down a little bit,” smiled McLaren’s Lando Norris, P2, “but clearly he didn’t.”
Verstappen, 27, was enraged just a fortnight ago in Saudi Arabia about his 5-second penalty, but Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko admits the Dutchman is in a particularly good mood in the USA.
“He is completely relaxed and is enjoying being a father,” the 82-year-old told Sky Deutschland.
“He showed me the pictures of the little one, with the dog and the cat. He is happy, and you can tell.
“And Max has not become three tenths slower, but two tenths faster,” Marko laughed.
In conversation with Viaplay, Verstappen explained that – together with girlfriend Kelly Piquet – he wanted to take a typically simple and straightforward approach to naming the baby.
“At some point Lily just sounded nice,” he said. “Nice and short, and she doesn’t have a middle name, just Lily and the last name.”
It is not clear if the full name is Lily Verstappen or Lily Verstappen-Piquet, but Mercedes boss Toto Wolff certainly knows what approach he would take if Max has plans for a motorsport future for the youngster.
“If she were to call herself Piquet-Verstappen, that’s great for marketing,” he smiled.
Verstappen also clarified that, although Lily was born in Monaco, that does not mean she is Monegasque like Charles Leclerc. “She will get a Dutch and Brazilian passport,” he said.
“Let’s just keep it simple,” he smiled.
So simple, so far, that he is yet to change a diaper. “Kelly had everything under control,” he laughed, admitting his girlfriend’s pregnancy even caused him to become a little lazier about his own diet.
“I have also been a bit pregnant, so I am a bit at the limit with my weight,” he said. “Now I just have to brake a bit later in turn 1.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES