Max Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, missed Thursday's events at the Miami Grand Prix to support his partner Kelly Piquet as she awaits the birth of their first child. The timing of Piquet's delivery remains unspecified, and Red Bull has not disclosed further details, although Verstappen is anticipated to participate in Friday's on-track activities. Piquet, daughter of three-time F1 champion Nelson Piquet, could not travel due to the advanced stage of her pregnancy. Verstappen has a close relationship with Piquet's daughter from a previous relationship, but this will be his first biological child. Though Verstappen has dominated F1 with 64 career victories and consecutive championships, he currently stands third in the series as McLaren shows strong performance this season.

Max Verstappen, who has won the last four Formula 1 championships, chose to miss Thursday's Miami Grand Prix events to be with his partner, Kelly Piquet, as they await the birth of their first child together.

Red Bull announced Verstappen's absence on Thursday morning, providing no further details about Piquet's due date but confirming that he is expected to join the race activities by Friday.

Kelly Piquet, daughter of F1 legend Nelson Piquet, is unable to travel due to the late stage of her pregnancy, as mentioned by her sister Julia at Talladega Superspeedway.

Verstappen has been in a public relationship with Piquet since 2021 and shares a close bond with her daughter Penelope from a previous relationship with driver Daniil Kvyat.

Despite his impressive career with 64 victories, Verstappen has only one win this season and currently ranks third in the standings, as McLaren shows competitive form.

Verstappen has previously won the first two Miami Grand Prix races, while McLaren's Lando Norris secured his first F1 victory at the Miami race last year.

The Miami Grand Prix marks the sixth race of the season, and Verstappen's participation is crucial as he aims to close the gap in the championship standings.