Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen recently explained why he opted out of attending the red‑carpet premiere of F1: The Movie, co‑produced by Lewis Hamilton. Instead of rubbing shoulders with celebrities and promoting the film, he went home to his family—specifically to help his partner Kelly Piquet tend to their newborn daughter Lily. In his own words, he prefers the authenticity and comfort of family life over glamorized publicity.
Verstappen characterized formal premieres as “horrible”—he doesn’t enjoy dressing up for events, smiling on cue, or engaging in small talk with people he doesn’t know. His priorities lie in genuine connections and personal well‑being. Red carpet appearances feel forced and inauthentic to him, which contrasts sharply with the polished and commercial side of Formula 1.
He made sure to inform Formula One Management well in advance that he wouldn’t attend the screening in Monaco. The event was optional, and Verstappen chose to spend his personal time in a setting he finds more meaningful—at home with his family.
Despite skipping the premiere, Verstappen appears in the film itself. Footage for F1: The Movie was captured during actual race weekends, and he is seen several times on screen alongside stars such as Brad Pitt and Damson Idris.
Beyond F1, Verstappen has expressed disillusionment with the industry’s marketing demands. He recently tested a GT3 car under the alias “Franz Hermann” at the Nürburgring, and he’s planning to pursue a Nordschleife license to compete in endurance racing—projects that reflect his desire for more authentic, racing‑driven experience
Max’s choice highlights a tension between the glitzy spectacle of Formula 1 off‑track life and the simple reality of being a new father. He made it clear that, for him, the authenticity of supporting his family outweighs the spotlight.
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