Formula One world champion Max Verstappen and his partner Kelly Piquet have purchased land at Pinheirinho Comporta, an exclusive development in coastal Portugal, where they intend to build a private residence.
According to the Daily Mail, the couple, who have spent the past two summers vacationing in the region, are taking their fondness for the area a step further by setting down roots.
Verstappen’s private jet was recently spotted at a nearby airport, and the Dutch driver was seen enjoying rounds of golf and beachside relaxation at the upscale UltraLuxe Pinheirinho Comporta resort.
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The area is known for its unspoiled landscapes and high-end offerings, including luxury homes, a championship golf course, a full-service resort, and wellness facilities.
Formula One world champion Max Verstappen and his partner Kelly Piquet have purchased land at Pinheirinho Comporta, an exclusive development in coastal Portugal, where they intend to build a private residence
|GETTY
Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy surfing, tennis, horseback riding, and other activities.
The area's growing list of celebrity residents and guests includes Christian Louboutin, Princess Eugenie, Claudia Schiffer, Madonna, and Harrison Ford.
This news comes shortly after Verstappen was investigated by stewards during Friday’s second practice session at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The Red Bull driver was seen discarding a white towel from his cockpit after Turn 3, prompting officials to review the incident.
Verstappen had aimed to keep the towel away from the racing line by veering to the far side of the track before throwing it.
After reviewing the footage, stewards concluded that no further action was necessary and issued only a warning.
Off the track, Verstappen has also entered a new chapter in his personal life.
In May, he and Piquet welcomed their first child together, a daughter named Lily.
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Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet welcomed their first child together back in May
|GETTY
The 27-year-old shared the joyful news on Instagram, posting black-and-white photos of the newborn along with a heartfelt caption: "Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts are fuller than ever — you are our greatest gift. We love you so much."
While this is Verstappen's first child, Piquet has a daughter named Penelope, born in 2019 during her previous relationship with F1 driver Daniil Kvyat.
Speaking on the Talking Bull podcast, Verstappen shared how being around Penelope had already given him a glimpse into fatherhood: "Luckily I did get a little bit of training with Penelope, seeing her grow up already for like four years, which has been also really, really nice.
"But yes, for sure, when it's like, also going be fully your own [kid]... Yes, it’s going to be a different challenge. But I'm looking forward to it."
The couple, who began dating in October 2020, announced their pregnancy last December.
Despite their nine-year age difference, they have spoken openly about the strength of their relationship.
Piquet, who is the daughter of three-time F1 world champion Nelson Piquet, reflected on their bond: "I think we have a very healthy relationship, easygoing, we have a lot of understanding and support for each other.
"You would think the age difference could be a challenge, but so far things are going really well.
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Max Verstappen is currently preparing for the Dutch Grand Prix, with the F1 season set to resume on August 31
| REUTERS"I also really appreciate how he treats Penelope. It's so sweet to see."
When asked about the possibility of marriage, Verstappen has kept things open, stating that only 'time will tell' whether they choose to take that next step.
Meanwhile, the next race is the Dutch Grand Prix - which will take place on August 31.
Verstappen will be hoping to win in the Netherlands for the fourth time, with his last victory coming in 2023. Lando Norris, of McLaren, won the event last year.