Formula One champion Max Verstappen has become a father for the first time after girlfriend Kelly Piquet gave birth to a baby girl.
The four-time world champion announced the arrival of their daughter Lily just hours before practice begins at the Miami Grand Prix.
Verstappen and Piquet shared a picture of the newborn gripping onto a finger with the caption: "Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts are fuller than ever - you are our greatest gift. We love you so much."
The happy news prompted numerous well-wishes from fans and family.
Formula One champion Max Verstappen has become a father for the first time after girlfriend Kelly Piquet gave birth to a baby girl
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Verstappen's sister Victoria commented: "Can't wait to meet her!"
Lily was born on Thursday, with Verstappen later flying to Florida on the same day.
The Dutchman had delayed his flight to remain at home with Kelly in Monaco.
This meant the new father, 27, missed Thursday's usual media briefing as he was in the air in his private jet after departing from Nice.
Despite the news coming shortly before practice begins in Florida, Verstappen is expected to race for Red Bull this weekend.
A statement from the team said: "Please note that 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."
Practice 1 takes place on Friday lunchtime Miami time, which is six hours behind Monaco.
Sprint qualifying follows later at 9:30pm GST.
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Saturday features the sprint race at 12pm, plus qualifying for the Grand Prix at 4pm.
The main race begins at 4pm on Sunday.
Verstappen will be looking to improve his championship position in Miami.
The Dutch driver currently sits third in the drivers' standings on 87 points.
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He trails championship leader Oscar Piastri, who has 99 points, and second-placed Lando Norris on 89 points.
Verstappen's only win this season came at the Japanese Grand Prix.
Brazilian model Piquet, 36, is the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet.
She has a five-year-old daughter, Penelope, from her previous relationship with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat.
Max Verstappen will be hoping to win the Miami Grand Prix this weekend
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Verstappen and Piquet began dating in 2020, four years after they first met at a dinner.
Their relationship started after Piquet's relationship with Kvyat ended.
In a recent Viaplay documentary, Verstappen revealed he dislikes fame and wishes to spend more time with his family.
The arrival of baby Lily marks a significant personal milestone for the racing champion as he balances his professional career with his growing family responsibilities.
