The motorsport world is mourning a profound loss as Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has been struck by personal tragedy with the death of his cousin, Victor Benoit, in the recent Air India plane crash. The devastating incident, which occurred on June 12, 2025, near Ahmedabad, India, claimed the lives of 270 people when Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, crashed shortly after takeoff. Among the victims was Benoit, whose passing has left Verstappen and his family in deep sorrow.
The crash, one of the deadliest aviation disasters of the decade, has sent shockwaves globally. The London-bound flight, carrying 242 passengers and crew, struck a residential area, including a medical college hostel, resulting in widespread devastation. Authorities have recovered the flight data recorder, and investigations are underway to determine the cause, with early reports suggesting a possible dual engine failure. Amid the wreckage and ongoing recovery efforts, the identification process has been agonizing for families, with only a fraction of the victims’ bodies released so far.
Verstappen, the Red Bull Racing driver and current F1 titleholder, has not yet made a public statement, but sources close to the family confirm the devastating news. Benoit, a relatively private figure, was traveling to London, possibly to support Verstappen during the upcoming Formula 1 season or for personal reasons. The loss has cast a shadow over the Dutch driver’s recent on-track success, including his apology to the team following a collision with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. Fans and fellow drivers have expressed their condolences on social media, highlighting the tight-knit nature of the racing community.
The Air India tragedy has also drawn attention to the broader human cost. Among the victims were families, including sisters Dhir and Heer Baxi from London, whose cousin described their vibrant spirits and dreams of exploring the world. Another survivor, British national Viswash Kumar Ramesh, recounted the horror of escaping the burning wreckage, a rare glimmer of hope amid the tragedy. However, for Verstappen’s family, the focus remains on grieving Benoit’s untimely death. Reports suggest Benoit’s relatives are struggling with the slow identification process, a sentiment echoed by many affected families awaiting closure.
The aviation industry is under scrutiny following the crash, with India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation ordering inspections of all Boeing 787s operated by local carriers. Speculation about electrical failures or maintenance issues has fueled debates, though no definitive conclusions have been reached. Turkish Technic, linked to the plane’s maintenance, has denied any responsibility, adding complexity to the investigation.
As the racing world prepares for the Canadian Grand Prix, Verstappen’s participation remains uncertain. His resilience on the track is well-known, but this personal loss may impact his focus. Teammates and rivals, including Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton, have reportedly reached out to offer support. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has emphasized the team’s commitment to standing by Verstappen during this difficult time.
The Verstappen family’s grief is shared by a global audience, with fans leaving messages of sympathy online. Tributes to Benoit highlight his connection to the racing world through Max, a bond now severed by this tragic event. As investigations continue and the death toll is finalized, the focus remains on supporting the bereaved, including Verstappen, as they navigate this heartbreaking loss. The motorsport community and beyond stand united, offering condolences and hoping for strength in the face of such an unimaginable tragedy.
