Max Verstappen, four-time Formula 1 world champion and Red Bull driver, missed media day at the Miami GP on Thursday, but Red Bull quickly reassured fans: the reigning champion will be present and ready to compete for the sixth round of the 2025 season.

Verstappen missed his pre-race media commitments as he and his partner, Kelly Piquet, Nelson Piquet’s daughter, are expecting the birth of their first child. Red Bull stated, “Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby. All is well and he will attend track tomorrow for the race weekend.”

The team’s statement made clear that Verstappen’s participation in the Grand Prix itself was never in doubt, and that the Dutch star would be at the Miami International Autodrome for Friday’s opening practice session.

Verstappen, who has openly expressed his excitement about becoming a father, has also acknowledged the unique demands of life as an F1 driver. “In F1 that [paternity leave] doesn’t exist. You cannot take two months off,” Verstappen said recently.

“If it happens, it happens. There’s nothing I can do about it. Unfortunately, F1 drivers don’t get time off, but at the same time I’m also not the one that is giving birth,” he added. The timing of the baby’s arrival seems to fall conveniently between the Miami and Emilia Romagna Grands Prix, meaning Verstappen is not expected to miss any races.

A Challenging Season So Far

On the track, Verstappen’s 2025 campaign has been more challenging than recent years. After five rounds, he sits third in the drivers’ championship, trailing Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. Verstappen has secured one win so far this season, at the Japanese Grand Prix, but has also faced tough competition and some frustrating weekends, including a penalty-affected race in Saudi Arabia that cost him the lead to Piastri.

Despite these setbacks, Verstappen remains a formidable force. His consistency and racecraft have kept him in the title hunt, and his ability to adapt to evolving circumstances is well known. As he returns to Miami, Verstappen will be looking to close the gap in the championship and add another victory to his record.

What to Expect in Miami

The Miami Grand Prix, with its fast straights and technical sections, is a venue where Verstappen has previously excelled—where he finished second last year and claimed victory in 2023.

This year’s event features a Sprint format, offering extra points and strategic intrigue throughout the weekend. With the championship battle heating up, every session will be crucial for Verstappen as he aims to regain momentum against the surging McLaren duo.

As the F1 world turns its attention back to the racing, Verstappen’s presence in Miami is assured. Red Bull and Verstappen fans can look forward to seeing their champion back on track—focused, determined, and with plenty to race for both on and off the circuit.