Verstappen skips Miami media day as baby expected imminently

Reigning champion's girlfriend is expecting their first child but Verstappen is set to be back for Friday practice

Red Bull Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen is skipping Thursday media duties ahead of the Miami Grand Prix.

The reigning champion, who is expecting his first child with girlfriend Kelly Piquet, won’t be at the Miami track on Thursday for his regular scheduled media sessions, which drivers usually only miss for serious medical reasons.

Red Bull cited the four-time world champion’s baby as the reason for his absence. Although it hasn't been confirmed whether Piquet has already given birth, Verstappen's private jet was seen leaving the airport in Nice Thursday morning.

Motorsport.com understands that “all is well” in the Verstappen camp and the Dutchman is expected to attend the track for Friday’s practice session and sprint qualifying.

The pair, who have been dating since 2020, said they "couldn’t be happier" with their "little miracle" in a joint Instagram post confirming Piquet's pregnancy last year.

"Mini Verstappen-Piquet on the way," they wrote alongside a snap of the Brazilian model's baby bump.

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, with Kelly Piquet in Parc Ferme

Photo by: Steven Tee / Motorsport Images

When asked about the news in the Abu Dhabi paddock, Verstappen said he was looking forward to parenthood.

"I'm already kind of a bonus dad," he said, referring to Piquet's daughter Penelope. "But I'm still very excited for sure."

Meanwhile, Piquet took to her Instagram Story to thank fans for their kind words and shared a sweet message.

"I understand how these announcements can be challenging for those who are longing for a child," she wrote. "While such news is often a joyous occasion, it can also evoke feelings of sadness, frustration or longing in those who are struggling with this. If that’s you, I’m sending all my love, my deepest hugs and magic your way."

The couple's child will have seven world championships in their lineage as Kelly is the daughter of three-time champion, Nelson Piquet.

She was previously in a relationship with Daniil Kvyat, who was replaced at Red Bull by Verstappen in 2016, and the pair co-parent Penelope.