The Formula 1 paddock is no stranger to drama, but a recent comment from Max Verstappen’s girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, has sent shockwaves through the community. In a surprising fit of anger, Piquet called Mercedes driver George Russell an “old-fashioned boy,” a scathing remark that sparked debate among fans, drivers, and pundits. The comment, made during a recent interview, sparked controversy and reignited the already intense rivalry between Verstappen and Russell.
The incident follows a heated exchange between Verstappen and Russell during a recent Grand Prix weekend. Tensions have been rising between the two drivers, with Russell often openly expressing his ambitions to challenge Verstappen’s dominance. While the details of their latest clash remain unclear, Piquet’s comment appears to be aimed directly at Russell’s behavior and apparent immaturity on the grid. His choice of words, particularly “old-fashioned,” has sparked widespread speculation about the underlying context and reasons for such a bold statement.
Piquet, an iconic figure in F1 due to her relationship with the reigning champion and her personal history as the daughter of three-time world champion Nelson Piquet, is known for her active presence on social media and in the paddock. Her comment sparked widespread interest, with some praising her for defending Verstappen, while others criticized her for interfering in the on-track rivalry between the drivers. Social media, especially X, generated a wide range of reactions, with fans divided over whether Piquet’s remark was justified or unnecessarily provocative.
Russell, known for his composure and eloquent responses, has yet to publicly respond to Piquet’s comments. However, sources close to Mercedes suggest the young Briton is unfazed and is instead focusing on his performance in the 2025 season. Russell’s rise to F1 has been marked by his ability to compete with top drivers like Verstappen, and this incident could only intensify their rivalry in the upcoming races.
The wider F1 community has also weighed in. Some experts believe Piquet’s comments risk escalating into professional conflict, potentially undermining the sport’s competitive spirit. Others see it as a reflection of the high stakes in F1, where emotions often run high. Teams and drivers are now under scrutiny to maintain their professionalism as the season’s crucial races approach.
This controversy highlights the personal dynamics that often intertwine with the competitive nature of F1. While Verstappen continues to dominate on the track, stories like this off the track keep the sport in the spotlight. As the F1 circus gears up for the next race, all eyes will be on Verstappen and Russell to see if this verbal spat translates into a more heated battle on the circuit. For now, Piquet’s comment has kept the spotlight on the drama surrounding two of F1’s biggest stars.
