Red Bull F1 star Max Verstappen has been going out with Kelly Piquet for a number of years

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Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet are closing in on a decade of being together(Image: Bryn Lennon – Formula 1/Formula 1 via Getty Images)

Max Verstappen’s partner Kelly Piquet has admitted her initial encounter with the racing driver was an “absolute disaster.” Kelly, daughter of Formula One icon Nelson Piquet, was 27 when she crossed paths with the Red Bull ace in 2016, whilst he was just 19.

In an Instagram post earlier this week, Piquet, now 37, uploaded numerous snapshots from a decade ago featuring getaways with mates, family gatherings and even a photograph alongside Niki Lauda, who passed away in 2019. Among the 20 images shared, the final one drew the biggest reaction.

The monochrome photograph, showing her alongside Verstappen, marked their first meeting as Kelly’s accompanying caption detailed her initial experience with the Dutch driver. It stated: “I met this man. The very next day he told me I was the love of his life.

“Little did I know that 10 years later we’d be celebrating five years together and have a perfect baby girl.” In a follow-up comment beneath, she noted: “I absolutely did not have a magical night that evening, but there was serendipity in the air.”

Piquet’s mum then highlighted Kelly’s remark, repeating: “I did not have a magical night that night,” prompting Kelly to respond: “I would say an absolute disaster.” Nearing six years as a couple, Kelly has supported Max through every one of his world championship triumphs.

Reflecting on fatherhood, he shared: “It was definitely a wonderful experience. I’m so glad I could be there – absolutely. My parents also said, of course, that being there and experiencing everything is the most beautiful thing. That’s absolutely true. Seeing your own baby is, of course, very special.”

Tied to Red Bull through 2028, the team’s disappointing campaign last season combined with Mercedes’ aggressive pursuit of Verstappen sparked speculation about his future with the outfit.

A provision in his deal, which could potentially allow him to depart Red Bull should he finish below second in the drivers’ standings, is understood to be reactivated later this year. Ex-F1 racer Johnny Herbert reckons Verstappen’s allegiance to the squad he’s called home throughout his career isn’t limitless.

He explained: “Loyalty is important, but it can only go so far. When you’re in Verstappen’s position, you have to have that trust that Red Bull can offer him what he needs to win races.

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Max Verstappen’s four-year reign as F1 world champion came to an end last year(Image: Jayce Illman/Getty Images)

“But if Red Bull can’t consistently offer him the tools he needs, like in 2025, sometimes, loyalty comes to an end. Feelings can shift because they’re not giving you what they should be giving you.

“I think a driver of Max’s stature is always looking for the next best thing. That doesn’t mean it could be next year, it could be in the next two or three years. All the rumours last season were a sign that Max might be looking elsewhere, let’s see.”