Monte Carlo, Monaco – As the Formula 1 circus rolled into the glamorous streets of Monte Carlo for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, all eyes were not only on the circuit but also on the shimmering waters of the Monte Carlo marina. Four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has once again stolen the spotlight, this time off the track, with the debut of his stunning new private yacht, Unleash the Lion. The 33-meter Mangusta GranSport 33, valued at an estimated $12–15 million, has become the talk of the Riviera, captivating fans, onlookers, and the yachting elite alike. With its sleek design, luxurious interiors, and a name that echoes Verstappen’s fierce racing persona, Unleash the Lion is as bold a statement on the water as the Dutchman’s driving is on the asphalt.

The yacht, spotted docked at the Monte Carlo marina ahead of the Grand Prix weekend, is a masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship from the renowned Overmarine shipyard. Commissioned two years ago, Unleash the Lion was delivered to Verstappen earlier this year in Viareggio, Italy, where he and his partner, Kelly Piquet, celebrated its understated launch. The vessel’s name is a nod to Verstappen’s personal brand, reflecting his relentless drive and the lion emblem synonymous with his Dutch heritage and racing identity. The number 33, a subtle tribute to his original racing number, also ties the yacht to his storied career, though he now races with the champion’s #1.

A Floating Palace of Luxury and Performance

Stepping inside Unleash the Lion is like entering a world of opulence tailored to a champion’s taste. The Mangusta GranSport 33 is designed to blend high performance with unparalleled luxury, boasting a top speed of 25–26 knots and a cruising range of 300 nautical miles, powered by four Volvo Penta IPS engines. Its exterior, with a sleek grey hull and a bold lion emblem, mirrors Verstappen’s dynamic and commanding presence. The yacht’s compact yet powerful design allows it to navigate the Mediterranean with ease, making it a perfect retreat for the Red Bull star during the demanding F1 season.

The interior is where Unleash the Lion truly shines. Custom-built to Verstappen’s specifications, the yacht features five elegant cabins that can accommodate up to 12 guests, ensuring ample space for family, friends, or fellow F1 personalities. The owner’s suite, located at the bow, offers panoramic views of the sea, while the remaining staterooms are designed for comfort and privacy. A spacious salon, complete with modern Italian design and high-end finishes, serves as the heart of the yacht, ideal for entertaining or unwinding after a high-octane race weekend. The vessel also includes a beach club at the stern, perfect for a quick dip in the Mediterranean, and a sundeck with lounging areas for soaking up the Riviera sun. For those craving adventure, there’s even space to store a speedboat, adding to the yacht’s versatility.

A Symbol of Verstappen’s Success

Verstappen’s acquisition of Unleash the Lion is a testament to his status as one of Formula 1’s highest earners, with Forbes estimating his 2025 earnings at $78 million. The yacht joins an impressive collection of luxury assets, including a Dassault Falcon 8X private jet (also branded with the Unleash the Lion initials) and a recently sold Falcon 900EX, previously purchased from Sir Richard Branson. This latest purchase places Verstappen among an elite group of sports icons who own Mangusta yachts, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Manchester City chairman Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

While the yacht has drawn admiration for its beauty and craftsmanship, it has also sparked some controversy. Social media discussions, particularly on platforms like Reddit, have highlighted the environmental impact of such luxury purchases, with some critics pointing out that superyachts contribute significantly to carbon emissions. One study cited in online debates noted that the world’s top 300 superyachts emit more carbon annually than the nation of Tonga. Verstappen, known for his charity work, including mental health initiatives, has not publicly addressed these criticisms, but the conversation underscores the tension between the lavish lifestyles of F1’s elite and growing environmental concerns.

A Grand Entrance in Monaco

In Monaco, where glamour and high-stakes racing collide, Unleash the Lion has become a fitting extension of Verstappen’s larger-than-life persona. Unlike many F1 drivers who dock their yachts in Monaco’s iconic Port Hercule, Verstappen has chosen to moor his vessel in nearby Cap d’Ail, offering greater privacy near his residence. The yacht served as a private retreat during the Grand Prix weekend, with reports suggesting Verstappen hosted friends and team members aboard in a relaxed atmosphere while preparing mentally for the race.

On the track, Verstappen faces a challenging weekend. Despite his dominance in the 2025 season, including a victory at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, he has expressed doubts about his Red Bull RB21’s performance on Monaco’s tight, twisty circuit. “This track isn’t optimal for us,” he noted in a recent interview, citing the difficulties of adapting the car to the low-speed corners. Yet, his strong showing in Friday’s FP1 session, where he finished just behind local favorite Charles Leclerc, suggests he remains a formidable contender.

A New Chapter for Verstappen

The arrival of Unleash the Lion coincides with a significant personal milestone for Verstappen. Just months ago, Kelly Piquet gave birth to their first daughter, Lily, adding a new dimension to the champion’s life. Verstappen’s decision to skip media day at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix to be present for the birth highlighted his commitment to family amidst his high-flying career. The yacht, with its spacious accommodations and luxurious amenities, offers a private haven for Verstappen, Piquet, and their newborn to escape the relentless pace of the F1 calendar.

As the Monaco Grand Prix unfolds, Unleash the Lion stands as a symbol of Verstappen’s success, ambition, and unapologetic flair. Whether dominating the circuits or commanding the seas, the Dutchman continues to make bold moves that cement his legacy both on and off the track. For fans gathering at the Monte Carlo marina, hoping to catch a glimpse of the shimmering vessel, Unleash the Lion is more than a yacht—it’s a floating testament to a champion’s unrelenting drive.

Sources:

• Reddit r/formula1, @tgruener post

• Athlon Sports, May 23, 2025

• Basesport, May 27, 2025

• Sportskeeda, May 23, 2025

• SuperYachtFan, February 11, 2025

• Forbes, 2025 earnings estimate

• The Cool Down, July 3, 2025