Max Verstappen's fatherhood journey sparks candid F1 driver conversations
Formula 1 drivers have been sharing their thoughts on fatherhood after Max Verstappen welcomed his daughter Lily in April 2023. The Red Bull driver missed just one media event before returning to racing. Now, other drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have opened up about their own perspectives on the experience.
Hamilton recently asked Verstappen about becoming a father for the first time. The seven-time world champion admitted he once nearly fainted outside an operating room during a birth—though not his own child's. Verstappen's response was simple: when your child is born, you just have to be there. His focus on being present struck a chord with fellow drivers.
Since Lily's arrival, Verstappen has competed in 52 races across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 seasons. His commitment to racing remained unchanged, though he briefly stepped back from media duties in Miami.
Ferrari's Leclerc also weighed in, saying he would react the same way as Verstappen when his own child is born. The topic has sparked candid conversations among drivers about balancing family life with the demands of elite motorsport.
Verstappen's return to racing after Lily's birth shows how top athletes manage personal milestones alongside their careers. His comments have encouraged others to reflect on fatherhood, from Hamilton's light-hearted story to Leclerc's future plans. The discussions highlight a rare glimpse into the drivers' lives beyond the track.
