Max Verstappen`s fellow Formula 1 competitors have rejected the idea that becoming a parent for the first time might negatively influence the reigning world champion`s driving ability.
Verstappen, currently holding three world championships, confirmed on Friday that he had welcomed his first child. His partner, Kelly Piquet, gave birth to a baby girl named Lily.
The Dutch driver shared his joy on Instagram, writing: “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts are fuller than ever – you are our greatest gift. We love you so much.”
Nico Hulkenberg is one of the few current F1 drivers who are fathers. Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix weekend, he was questioned about the common perception that drivers become less aggressive or slower after starting a family.
Hulkenberg, whose daughter was born in September 2021, suggested that observers should look at the statistics for evidence.
He noted that while individual experiences vary, he personally hasn`t found this to be the case.
Hulkenberg explained that once he is in the car and the visor is down, he tends to put everything else aside, being completely focused on maximizing performance.
He even feels that being a father has provided an “added benefit,” bringing significant joy and perspective outside of his racing career, suggesting it might even be helpful.
Other drivers on the current grid who are fathers include Max Verstappen`s Red Bull teammate, Sergio Perez, and Kevin Magnussen.
Hulkenberg welcomed Verstappen to the `dad club`, expressing hope that Lily is a “good sleeper” and anticipating the many positive experiences parenthood will bring for Max.
Fernando Alonso`s View
Fernando Alonso, who famously contributed to the notion that family responsibilities could affect a driver`s risk-taking, seems to have revised his opinion.
In 2005, after a bold pass on Michael Schumacher at Suzuka, Alonso famously quipped that he knew Schumacher would lift off because he had “a wife and two kids at home.”
However, when asked about the possibility of Verstappen`s approach changing, Alonso stated he doesn`t foresee that happening anytime soon.
Mercedes driver George Russell also doesn`t expect Verstappen`s performance level to alter, pointing out that many past Formula 1 champions and race winners have successfully balanced fatherhood with their careers.
Russell described becoming a parent as a “pretty special moment” and extended his best wishes to Verstappen.
He added that, echoing Hulkenberg`s sentiment, family often enriches life outside of racing and brings great joy, as he experiences with his nieces and nephews.
Russell concluded that historical examples of successful father-drivers suggest that parenthood won`t impact Verstappen`s professional capabilities on the track.
Max Verstappen`s former rival, Lewis Hamilton, chose not to comment on the potential impact on Verstappen`s driving but offered heartfelt congratulations.
The seven-time world champion simply wished Max “all the best,” describing the arrival of a child as an “amazing, special thing.”
Hamilton mentioned having a brief conversation with Verstappen in Saudi Arabia and seeing his excitement about the impending arrival, reiterating his congratulations.
