The 2023 Formula 1 season will go down in history as a season where Max Verstappen and Red Bull redefined what domination even means. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix served as the stage for the Dutchman’s 19th win of the season. It was a record-extending feat that positioned him third on the all-time win list with an astounding 54 victories. Max Verstappen wrapped up the season with an iconic celebration that echoed through the Yas Marina Circuit. However, it was not just Verstappen reveling in the moment; his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, captured the emotion trackside, providing fans with a unique perspective.
The F1 community will remember this season for sheer dominance, with Max Verstappen and Red Bull operating on a level that left their competitors in the dust. Verstappen’s 19th win at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was the exclamation point on a campaign that showcased a superiority unmatched in the history of the championship.
Kelly Piquet shares Max Verstappen’s iconic celebration before he parked his RB19 for good
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Starting from pole position for the twelfth time in the season, Max Verstappen fended off attacks from Charles Leclerc on the opening lap to stay in the lead. After regaining the lead following the switch to the hard tires, he never looked back. Charles Leclerc and George Russell trailed behind as the Dutchman not only secured victory but also claimed the fastest lap.
As the RB19 crossed the finish line, Max Verstappen’s emotions spilled over. “What an incredible year!” he exclaimed. The Dutch driver concluded the most dominant season in Formula 1 history with an iconic celebration as he burned the rubber, doing donuts at the start-finish straight before parking his RB19 for good.
Trackside, with her unique point of view, Kelly Piquet took to Instagram to share Verstappen’s celebration. Her caption resonated with the sentiment of a perfect season’s conclusion. “Perfect end to a perfect season ❤️🫶🏻,” she wrote, encapsulating the emotions of the orange army.
Donuts, yum 🍩 😋#F1 #AbuDhabiGP pic.twitter.com/X0cC5LED9d
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 26, 2023
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Although Kelly Piquet loves watching Max Verstappen break record after record in Formula 1, when it comes to sim racing, she doesn’t shy away from dragging him away from time to time.
Kelly Piquet has to discipline her 26-year-old boyfriend
Away from the physical tracks of Formula 1, Max Verstappen often finds himself indulged in the virtual world of racing simulators, dedicating a considerable amount of time to his passion for sim racing. A member of the renowned sim racing team ‘Team Redline,’ Verstappen immerses himself in racing simulations like iRacing and Assetto Corsa.
His motorhome in the F1 paddock even boasts a dedicated rig for his virtual pursuits. However, Piquet has found herself in the role of disciplinarian, gently reminding Verstappen that life exists beyond the digital race track. “There have been times where I’ve been like, OK, time to switch off. You have to give a gentle reminder that the sun is shining outside and, you know, there are other things to do,” Kelly Piquet was quoted by TIME Magazine.
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Have a look at Max Verstappen’s sim racing setup 🔥😮💨 pic.twitter.com/Yu36uwMu5z
— Formula God (@formula1god) January 6, 2023
Despite Verstappen’s commitment to his virtual pursuits, he acknowledges Piquet’s perspective. In a compromise to maintain a peaceful home environment, the Dutchman opted to place the racing simulator in the living room, respecting Piquet’s need for tranquility. On race days, the living room doors are firmly closed, ensuring that no one encroaches within 10 meters of his setup.
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Do you think Red Bull will be able to maintain this level of dominance in 2024? Or will Mercedes and Ferrari step up their game to give Red Bull a run for their money? Share your predictions for the next season with us in the comments below.