Max Verstappen, the prodigious Formula 1 World Champion, has captivated fans not only with his unparalleled driving prowess but also with his journey through the world of romance. As a prominent public figure from a young age, his relationships have often garnered media attention, evolving from early connections to his current high-profile partnership. Verstappen's romantic history reflects a blend of private moments and public declarations, showcasing his growth both on and off the track.
One of Verstappen's earlier publicly acknowledged relationships was with Swedish racing driver Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky. Their connection reportedly lasted for about nine months, concluding in 2016. Åhlin-Kottulinsky, also immersed in the motorsport world, was open about their relationship on social media, often referring to Verstappen as her boyfriend. Their romance reportedly ended just before Verstappen made his significant move to Red Bull Racing in 2016, marking a period of considerable change in his burgeoning career.
Following this, Max Verstappen was linked to several individuals in his early twenties. While some reports mentioned names like Belgian model Joyce Godefridi, Dutch hockey player Maxime Pourquie, and Dutch beauty blogger Roos van der Aa, specific timelines and details for these connections remain largely private or unconfirmed by the parties involved. These brief associations underscore a period of exploration in his personal life as his professional career rapidly ascended.
By the end of 2017, Verstappen began dating German student Dilara Sanlik. This relationship spanned for a significant period, lasting until early 2020. Sanlik notably maintained a very private profile throughout their time together, preferring to stay out of the public spotlight despite her boyfriend's increasing global fame. Their relationship was characterized by its discretion, with Sanlik rarely appearing in media or at racing events, reflecting a conscious effort to keep their personal lives separate from his demanding career.
Max Verstappen's current and most prominent relationship began in late 2020 with Brazilian model and columnist Kelly Piquet. The couple went Instagram official in January 2021, with Verstappen sharing a New Year's post that announced their romance to the world. Their connection quickly became a focal point for fans, with Piquet frequently seen supporting Verstappen at races and sharing glimpses of their life together on social media.
Kelly Piquet is the daughter of three-time Formula 1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, making her no stranger to the fast-paced world of motorsport. She also has a daughter, Penelope, born in July 2019, from her previous relationship with fellow F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Verstappen has embraced his role as a stepfather figure to Penelope, often featuring her in his social media posts and showing a clear bond with the young girl.
Their relationship has continued to flourish, with Piquet often traveling with Verstappen and being a constant presence in his life away from the demanding F1 circuit. Despite their strong bond and public displays of affection, Verstappen has indicated that marriage is not immediately on the cards, stating in a December 2023 interview with German publication Blick, "Marry? I? Now you have publicly pressured me to give a date! Time will tell." This statement highlights their comfortable and committed partnership, even without immediate plans for matrimony.
Max Verstappen's romantic journey, from his early, less public connections to his established relationship with Kelly Piquet, illustrates a personal life that has matured alongside his professional achievements. While early relationships saw varying degrees of public exposure, his current partnership is openly celebrated, with Kelly Piquet playing a significant and supportive role in the life of the reigning Formula 1 champion. Their story continues to unfold, marked by mutual support and a shared understanding of the unique demands of life in the fast lane.