Max Verstappen, celebrated Formula 1 driver, rang in 2026 with a joyful family gathering shared on social media by his partner Kelly Piquet. This Max Verstappen family celebration took place as the new year approached, giving fans a rare glimpse into the private life of the racing champion and his loved ones.
Family Welcomes the New Year Together
Photos from the evening, posted by Kelly Piquet on her Instagram stories, captured intimate moments with Max Verstappen, their daughters Penelope Kvyat and Lily Verstappen, and close friends. The images reflected a relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, as the group gathered outdoors to enjoy the festivities. Piquet and Verstappen, a recognizable couple in the F1 paddock since 2020, made sure to keep their younger daughter Lily’s face private, continuing their efforts to protect her online presence since her birth in May 2025.
Besides the family group portraits, Piquet also posted wholesome selfies with Verstappen. Their smiles in the close-up images expressed warmth and genuine happiness. Additionally, shots of the group savoring a moonlit yacht ride and a video of a spectacular fireworks display marked the end of 2025, underscoring a night of celebration and companionship.
Recent Milestones for Verstappen and Piquet
The new year’s gathering follows an eventful F1 season for Max Verstappen. In 2025, Piquet and her daughter Penelope were present at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where Verstappen finished as runner-up in the championship, losing by just two points to McLaren’s Lando Norris. Despite missing a fifth championship, Verstappen maintained a positive outlook, choosing to focus on his impressive comeback during the latter stages of the season. The four-time world champion’s resilience was evident, and family support remained a clear priority during both the highs and lows of competition.
Recognition from F1 Community
Although Verstappen narrowly lost out on the 2025 drivers’ title, his peers recognized his talent and commitment. Drivers voted Verstappen as the top performer of the season, with world champion Lando Norris coming in second and Mercedes’ George Russell securing third. This selection was notable as Verstappen became the first non-champion to earn this accolade since the introduction of the ranking in 2018.
Team principals also named Verstappen their best driver of 2025. The Dutch driver achieved the most race victories and pole positions throughout the season, reinforcing his standing as a leading figure in motorsport. The rest of the rankings included Oscar Piastri of McLaren in fourth, Charles Leclerc of Ferrari in fifth, Spanish drivers Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso placing sixth and seventh, and Alex Albon in eighth. The list continued with rookies Ollie Bearman and Isack Hadjar, who impressed in their debut seasons, completing the top ten.
Impact and Legacy of the Family Celebration
This Max Verstappen family celebration provided fans with a personal snapshot of the Formula 1 icon beyond the racetrack. The new year festivities, shared among family and friends, emphasized the importance of togetherness after a demanding season. Verstappen’s ability to balance his professional achievements with personal moments, supported by Kelly Piquet and their daughters, highlights the foundational role of family in his life. As the F1 world looks ahead to a new season, these glimpses into Verstappen’s private world serve as a reminder of the passion and determination that define both his career and his relationships off the track.
