Max Verstappen has opened up on what fatherhood is like, recognising that difficult times await when leaving home for races becomes a greater challenge.

The four-time world champion’s daughter, Lily, was born a year ago ahead of the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, which has changed Verstappen’s life.

To ensure he spends as much time at home as possible with his daughter and long-time partner Kelly Piquet, Verstappen has changed when he travels to Grands Prix, leaving it as late as possible.

He did not travel to the Canadian Grand Prix until the Wednesday of race week, a day later than he would have done in the past. It has marked a year of learning and new challenges for the 28-year-old.

Asked what lessons he has learned from being a father for a year, Verstappen told De Telegraaf: “For me the most important thing is: always be yourself. And from me, she can completely decide for herself what she likes to do later on or not. 

“There are many parents who push their child and want to push them in a certain direction, for example in terms of sports. You shouldn’t do that. I think you can introduce a child to certain sports, but ultimately they have to choose for themselves what they want to do.

“Although playing sports is generally good. To be healthy and it also keeps you off the streets. You’re less likely to do stupid things then. Also, I think it’s important to be kind to your family. 

“And that sometimes you remember that not everyone is there forever. And that you are compassionate, especially regarding the people around you.”

Verstappen aware of what is to come

Being a father and an F1 driver is a difficult combination, given the amount of time spent away from home, with Verstappen having several memories of when his father, Jos, left home for races.

The 28-year-old revealed that, as he got older and understood that his father was leaving for several days, he used to become upset and cry, making him aware of what is to come with his own daughter.

Asked if leaving home will become increasingly difficult, Verstappen explained: “I’m sure it will. I can remember what it was like when my father went away for Formula 1 races. 

“I didn’t like that either. Sometimes he left secretly, literally through the back door. Because I really hated it, then I was just crying. And of course my father found that very annoying too.”