Kelly Piquet was proud as punch. Photo: Getty Images.Source: Getty Images
Kelly Piquet was overcome with emotion on Monday morning, breaking down in tears as Max Verstappen celebrated winning his maiden F1 world title in the most thrilling fashion.
There was drama galore in Abu Dhabi as the Dutchman overtook Lewis Hamilton on the final lap to claim victory, but there was plenty of controversy in the aftermath as Mercedes launched two protests that were later thrown out by the stewards.
The Silver Arrows can still launch an appeal but for now, Verstappen is world champion, ending Hamilton’s streak of four consecutive title wins.
The young gun leapt out of his car and raced towards his team after crossing the line, embracing an emotional Piquet among a throng of supporters. The model cried as she rejoiced in her partner’s success.
When Verstappen stepped onto the top of the podium, TV cameras showed Piquet applauding enthusiastically and at one stage she was wiping tears from her eyes. When she finally got to see Verstappen without a helmet on, the couple shared a romantic kiss.
Piquet shared plenty of congratulatory posts on her Instagram story, and the look on her face in the photos below show just how much Verstappen’s win means.
Piquet, 33, began dating Verstappen, 24, at the end of 2020. Since then, their relationship has bloomed as the Dutch star’s rise has continued.
The pair revealed they were a couple in a smitten Instagram post at the turn of the year.
“Happy New Year everyone,” Verstappen wrote alongside a snap of him and Piquet at the beach. “Let’s make 2021 a year to remember in many ways.
“Wishing you all success, love and happiness just as I found mine.”
She posted a similar message on social media.
“Love is what makes the world go round,” said Piquet. “Happy new year and much love #2021.”
Although she’s not a driver herself, Piquet has F1 in her veins. Her father Nelson Piquet has been called one of the greatest racers of all-time in motorsport.
In the 1980s, he won three world championships for Brabham. During his career, Nelson also competed in the Indianapolis 500 in 1992, as well as the famous Le Mans 24 Hours.
Now 69, he met Verstappen last month. But the driver refused to ask him for any advice.
“We didn’t talk about it because I don’t need advice,” Verstappen said.
“I know what to do in the car and I don’t have to ask anyone. Better to spend some time with the family.”
