In an unprecedented emotional moment for the Formula 1 world, Max Verstappen, the four-time world champion, shared a message that has hit the hearts of fans and colleagues. During a press conference prior to the Miami Grand Prix on 4 May 2025, the Dutch driver announced that he will temporarily stop racing to be at the birth of his first child. His girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, expected their child at the beginning of May, and Verstappen emphasized that he does not want to miss this special period. This decision marks a turning point in his career, in which he was always known for his uncompromising dedication to the sport. Now he seems to be looking for a new balance between his professional obligations and his private life.

Verstappen, who has been dominating Formula 1 for years with his unparalleled talent and determination, spoke frankly about his choice. He explained that fatherhood adds a new dimension to his life and that he wants to revise his priorities. “I have achieved everything I wanted in this sport,” he said with a visible emotion in his eyes. “But there is more to life than just racing. I want to be there for my child and Kelly. This is a time when I never get back.” His words resonated deep within the F1 community, where drivers rarely make personal sacrifices because of the ruthless calendar of the sport. Verstappen’s announcement comes at a time when he is still involved in a fierce championship fight, which makes his decision all the more remarkable.

The reactions within the paddock were mixed but mostly full of understanding. Red Bull team boss Christian Horner praised Verstappen’s courage to make such a personal choice in a sport where every race can be crucial. “Max is not only an exceptional driver, but also a person with values,” said Horner. “We fully support him and will do everything to help him during this period.” Other drivers, such as Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, also expressed their admiration. Norris even joked that Verstappen “is probably back faster than we think, because he can’t do without the adrenaline.” Yet there was also concern about how his absence would influence the championship, especially with McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, which is a serious threat this season.

However, not everyone responded with understanding. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem sent Verstappen an ultimatum shortly after his announcement, in which he warned the driver of the consequences of missing races. According to sources within the FIA, Ben Sulayem would have emphasized that Formula 1 tolerates no exceptions, not even for a champion of Verstappen’s stature. The ultimatum would mean that Verstappen may risk penalty points or even a suspension if he skips races for no official medical reason. This strict attitude stems from the recent tightening of the rules by the FIA, which are aimed at maintaining discipline and consistency in sport. The tension between Verstappen and Ben Sulayem is not new; Last year they already clashed about a punishment for Verstappen’s language during a press conference in Singapore.

The announcement of Verstappen also sheds light on the broader discussion about the balance between work and private life in Formula 1. The sport has a debilitating calendar with 24 races in 2025, and drivers rarely have room for personal milestones. Verstappen’s choice can create a precedent for future drivers who encounter similar dilemmas. Fans have responded en masse to social media, with hashtags such as #maxthedad who are trending. Many prizes are courage, while others speculate about how Red Bull will take care of his absence, possibly with reserve driver Liam Lawson.

For Verstappen itself, the decision seems to be established. He emphasized that he does not intend to stay away for a long time, but that his family is now leading. “I have always raced to win, but this is a race that I can’t postpone,” he said with a smile. While the Formula 1 world is preparing for an unusual period without its biggest star, one thing is clear: Verstappen not only remains a champion on the track, but also beyond. His choice to embrace paternity, even under pressure from the FIA, shows a human side that the sport rarely sees.