The Grand Prix of Italy 2025 in Monza is one that will enter the Formula 1 history books. Max Verstappen not only drove to a dominant victory, he also broke the record of the fastest average speed ever in a race. But what made the day unforgettable were not only the sporting performance, but also the emotions that came to the Dutchman and his loved ones.
After the finish, visibly affected, Verstappen called in the team radio and then opposite the cameras:“I did it, thanks to everyone.”His voice vibrated, and his words were not just a standard reaction; They reflected the immense pressure, the expectations and the long road that had brought him to this moment. For the millions of fans worldwide, this was a rare glimpse into the emotional side of a driver who often seems so cool and undisturbed.
The moment became even more intense due to the presence of Kelly Piquet, the partner of Verstappen, who has been supporting him for years thick and thin. Cameras registered her proud look from the pit wall and a subtle hand movement towards Max, as if she wanted to tell him:“I am here, I believe in you.”For many this became the image of the day, a symbol of power, loyalty and love behind the scenes of Formula 1.
Fans and commentators emphasized how special it is to see the human side of top athletes. The reactions came in on social media: some admitted that they got tears in their eyes, others praised not only as a driver, but also as a person who dared to show his emotions. The hashtag#ProudofmaxWas trending in several countries within a few hours.
There was also a sense of pride and connectedness within the Red Bull team. Team boss Christian Horner called the victory “one of the most complete and impressive performance” of Verstappen, while Race Engineer Gianpiero Lambiase was visibly moved during the traditional team call after the finish. The contrast between the technical precision of the race and the emotional discharge afterwards made clear how great the pressure and responsibility are at this level.
Kelly Piquet, himself daughter of triple world champion Nelson Piquet, knows better than anyone how heavy life can be in the spotlight of Formula 1. Her role as a mainstay is often underestimated, but her presence and support are crucial in the career of Verstappen. “Every time I see him win, I know how much work and sacrifice behind it,” she would have said later in a short interview.
The victory in Monza again underlines why Max Verstappen is considered one of the greatest talents that Formula 1 has ever known. Nevertheless, he showed this weekend that behind success lies a person of flesh and blood, someone who needs the support of his loved ones and his team to push the boundaries time and time again.
What lingers after the GP of Italy 2025 is therefore not only the record, but especially the image of an emotional Verstappen who spent the world with a broken voice:“I did it, thanks to everyone.”It is a memory that even the strongest often find their strength in the people who are unconditionally next to them.
