Verstappen's daughter will be in the paddock "only if she decides to be there"

A New Chapter Beyond the Circuit

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has offered a candid and thoughtful insight into his first year of parenthood, following the birth of his daughter Lily with partner Kelly Piquet in 2025. Away from the relentless intensity of the paddock, the Red Bull driver has been navigating a deeply personal journey — one that has already shaped his outlook on life beyond racing.

Freedom, Sport, and Compassion

Speaking to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Verstappen was clear about the values he wants to instil in his daughter — and, crucially, the mistakes he wants to avoid.

On the question of sport, Verstappen drew a firm line between encouragement and pressure — a distinction that clearly resonates with someone who grew up in the high-stakes world of motorsport. "There are many parents who push their child and want to steer them in a certain direction, for example regarding sports. That is exactly what you shouldn't do. I think you can introduce a child to certain sports, but ultimately they have to choose for themselves what they want to do."

Beyond physical activity, Verstappen placed equal weight on kindness and awareness. "Although practising sports is generally good — to stay healthy and it also keeps you off the streets — I think it is important to be kind to your family. And to sometimes stop and think that not everyone will be around forever. And to be compassionate, especially towards the people around you."

Protecting Lily from the Limelight

Growing up as the son of former F1 driver Jos Verstappen meant life in the public eye from an early age. It is a reality Max is determined not to impose on Lily before she is ready. The question of social media and the paddock was addressed directly.

"I don't want her in the picture right now. She has to decide for herself later whether she wants that or not," he explained. "That is why I don't want her in the paddock now. Firstly, because she won't remember it later anyway, but also with privacy in mind. A baby or young child should lead a carefree life."

It is a philosophy that reflects both personal conviction and lived experience — and a reminder that, away from title battles and podium celebrations, Verstappen is thinking carefully about the world he is building for his family. Those family discussions are even shaping decisions on the track, with his potential Daytona 24 Hours debut reportedly hinging in part on conversations at home.