Max Verstappen has once again captured public attention with his recent crash during the qualifying race for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix. Following the incident, Verstappen underwent a comprehensive medical evaluation of his hands. Apart from his racing endeavors, he is known for his candid opinions about the world of Formula 1. In his personal life, the Dutch driver is in a relationship with Kelly Piquet, who is nine years his senior.
Kelly Piquet, the daughter of three-time Formula 1 champion Nelson Piquet, is also linked to the motorsport world through her brother, Nelson Piquet Jr., who competes as a racer. Since publicly announcing her relationship with Verstappen, Kelly has been a steadfast supporter at his races. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Lily, in May 2025.
Before dating Verstappen, Kelly was in a relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Together, they have a daughter named Penelope. With a professional background as a model and former assistant to Vogue Latin America, Kelly, born in Germany in 1988, has carved a successful path in the fashion industry. She has worked with prestigious brands and appeared in Vogue Netherlands in 2022.
Their love story began in 2016 when they met during a dinner in Monaco. At that time, Kelly was still dating Kvyat. The couple’s relationship evolved, culminating in a romantic reconnection in 2020, a year after Kelly and Kvyat split. Kelly reflects on their journey in a heartfelt Instagram post, recalling how Verstappen expressed his feelings for her just a day after they met.
Despite their age difference, with Verstappen at 28 and Piquet at 37, they have faced scrutiny from fans. Concerns have arisen, particularly regarding their age dynamics. Kelly has addressed criticism and made it clear that their relationship did not begin until both were single. Supporters have defended her against negative comments, emphasizing the importance of understanding the timeline of their romance.
The relationship between Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet showcases a blend of personal and professional commitments against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of Formula 1. As they navigate the challenges and joys of parenthood and careers, their bond continues to attract attention from fans and the media alike.