The life of a Formula 1 driver isn’t easy. Apart from the ever-present pressure to perform at the very best level every time they get into their car and their need to stick to rigorous training schedules, the ever-growing F1 calendar isn’t helping. As much as Max Verstappen has expressed his disapproval of the increasing number of races because of how hectic drivers’ schedules are, another aspect usually flies under the radar. His girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, brought it to light.

Although F1 drivers are the stars of the show, a lot goes on behind the scenes to help them perform at their very best. As important as their team personnel are, it’s not just them traveling around the world with the driver. They have their families and partners following them around, too. Because they’re not front-and-center, people don’t usually realize how demanding the schedule is on them as well.  

Kelly Piquet, daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet, practically grew up on the race track. Even so, staying alongside Verstappen as much as she does takes a toll on her, and she expressed this in an interview with Dutch magazine Kek Mama. Featuring 22 races—which will increase to 24 in 2024—the F1 circus keeps drivers employed and traveling for more than six months a year. Talking about her busy schedule—considering she’s a mother, a model, and feels the need to support Verstappen as much as she can—Piquet said, “This year is particularly busy with travel, and it is not necessarily getting any easier.” [Translated by Google]

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She added, “It is important to take breaks in between and to stay as organized as possible. Although I must admit, it has been very tiring.” As much as supporting Verstappen means to her, she explained that she’s a mother first, and being there for her four-year-old daughter, Penelope, is her priority. Considering she has to travel frequently with the F1 circus, you would think her daughter would be with her most of the time. Believe it or not, Piquet is keeping her daughter away from F1.

Kelly Piquet reveals why Penelope hasn’t made an F1 appearance yet

Since Piquet and Verstappen started dating in 2020, the Dutchman has formed an amicable bond with Piquet’s daughter, Penelope. There are times when Verstappen—a driver who loves his home simulator and spends as much time on it as possible—gives up simulator time to have tea parties with Penelope. Considering how dominant Verstappen has been this season, there’s no better time to have the chance to be on his side of the Red Bull garage. While Piquet has become a common face in his camp, Penelope still hasn’t come to support her “perfect stepdad” live.

In the same interview with Kek Mama, Piquet said, “I haven’t taken P (Penelope) to races yet. She hasn’t asked for one yet, and I’d rather keep her away from photographers for now. If she asks, I might take her one day when it’s not too busy.” She also revealed that, as much of a fan as Penelope is of Verstappen, she isn’t a fan of loud noises. But when the time comes, and Penelope demands to see Verstappen in action, Piquet will comply.

Did you ever realize just how tough life is for people like Kelly Piquet, who stay on the sidelines in F1, supporting their partners and families?

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