Kelly Piquet Opens Up About Heartbreaking Struggle to Change Max Verstappen’s Decision to Leave F1
In a candid and emotional revelation, Kelly Piquet, long-time partner of Formula 1 sensation Max Verstappen, has shared her deeply personal experience of trying to prevent the unexpected end of her spouse’s career. Despite her efforts, Verstappen’s decision to retire from F1 has left fans, friends, and loved ones in disbelief.
As a model, influencer, and daughter of legendary F1 champion Nelson Piquet, Kelly Piquet is no stranger to the fast-paced world of motorsport. Her relationship with Max Verstappen, one of the most successful drivers in modern Formula 1, has always been in the public eye, with the two often seen as a power couple in the racing world. The pair appeared to share a deep bond, supporting each other through the ups and downs of Verstappen’s career.
However, Piquet has now revealed the emotional turmoil behind the scenes in the months leading up to Verstappen’s shocking retirement. Speaking publicly for the first time since the announcement, she explained how she made every effort to change his mind.
In a recent interview, Kelly Piquet opened up about her personal struggles as Verstappen wrestled with his decision to leave Formula 1. The Dutch driver’s sudden exit from the sport has left a void in the racing community, and his partner is still coming to terms with the devastating news.
“I tried my best to change his mind, but he was set on his decision,” Piquet confessed. “Max has always been strong-willed, and while I respected that, I hoped he would reconsider. It’s hard to see someone you love step away from something that has been their entire life.”
According to Piquet, Verstappen had been contemplating his future in the sport for some time. While the world saw a determined and focused athlete at the peak of his powers, behind the scenes, there were growing concerns about the pressures and challenges that come with life at the top of motorsport. Piquet did everything she could to offer her support, hoping that her influence might persuade him to stay.
For many, Max Verstappen’s sudden retirement following a recent ban came as a surprise. The reigning champion was seen as an unstoppable force on the grid, with several more successful seasons ahead of him. However, Piquet shed light on the emotional and mental toll that life in F1 had taken on her partner.
“Max had been struggling with the idea for a while, but I didn’t want to believe it,” she admitted. “It’s difficult to accept that something that brought him so much joy and success was also causing so much internal conflict. I just wanted him to be happy, whether that was on or off the track.”
Piquet emphasized that Verstappen’s decision wasn’t made lightly. Over many long conversations, she learned just how deeply the pressures of competing at the highest level weighed on him. Despite his love for racing, the relentless demands of the sport, the media attention, and the ever-increasing scrutiny became overwhelming.
“It wasn’t about a lack of passion for the sport; Max still loves racing,” Piquet said. “But sometimes, even when you’re doing something you love, the personal sacrifices are too great. He reached a point where he felt he had given enough.”
Despite the finality of Verstappen’s decision, Piquet held out hope that he might change his mind. She recounted the emotional conversations they had as she tried to convince him to reconsider.
“I told him he still had so much more to give, so many more records to break, and that his fans weren’t ready to say goodbye,” she said. “I thought if I could just remind him of all the things he loved about F1, he might realize how much he’d miss it.”
But Piquet soon realized that Verstappen’s mind was made up. “I could see that his heart was no longer fully in it. I wanted to fight for his happiness, but ultimately, I knew that this was his choice to make.”
Despite her own heartbreak over Verstappen’s decision, Kelly Piquet has made it clear that she stands by her partner. The couple has been through many challenges together, and Piquet expressed her admiration for his strength in making such a difficult choice.
“It’s not easy to walk away from something that’s been your entire life, especially when you’re at the top,” she explained. “But I respect Max for doing what’s right for him, even if it wasn’t what I wanted. My role now is to support him in whatever comes next.”
Piquet acknowledged that while she had hoped for a different outcome, her priority is to stand by Verstappen as he transitions to a new chapter in his life. “I’m proud of everything he’s achieved, and I’ll always be his biggest supporter, no matter what he chooses to do.”
While the future remains uncertain for both Verstappen and Piquet, they are focused on moving forward together. Piquet hinted that they are looking forward to spending more time together, away from the constant spotlight that accompanies the world of F1.
“We’ve spent so much of our relationship living in the fast lane, quite literally,” she said with a smile. “Now, it’s time for us to slow down a little and enjoy life away from the pressure.”
Though the motorsport world will undoubtedly feel the absence of Max Verstappen, his partner Kelly Piquet will continue to be by his side as they navigate this next phase of their journey. While fans may mourn the loss of a legend, it’s clear that Verstappen’s legacy in Formula 1 will live on, and he has the unwavering support of the person who knows him best.
“I’ll always miss seeing him out there on the track,” Piquet said softly. “But I know this is what he needs, and that’s what matters most.