Max Verstappen’s girlfriend was clearly unimpressed at the US Grand Prix on Sunday as American fans booed the reigning world champion on the Formula One podium.
Securing his 50th F1 career victory in Austin, Texas, winning 15 out of 18 attempts, the Dutchman bested Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris as he crossed the finish line. However, the occasion was marred by boos from several fans, some of whom were supporters of Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate, Sergio Perez.
The reasons for the negative reception towards Verstappen are multifaceted, from his aggressive driving style to his intense rivalry with Hamilton, his association with Perez, and his sheer dominance in the sport.
A video shared on social media captured the moment Verstappen proudly kissed the trophy while fans booed and jeered during the Dutch national anthem, with some shouting ‘Checo’ in support of Perez. In the same footage, Kelly Piquet, Verstappen’s Brazilian model girlfriend, can be seen holding up her mobile phone to record her boyfriend on the podium. She displayed a puzzled and unimpressed expression, raising questions about her feelings towards the situation.
When asked about the booing, Verstappen responded, “No, no. In the end, I’m the one who takes the silverware home, so all fine by me!”
Hamilton, who had hopes of ending his 686-day winless streak, initially blamed Mercedes’ strategy for his second-place finish behind Verstappen. However, he was ultimately disqualified four hours later due to an illegal floor. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, who finished sixth, also faced disqualification for the same infraction by four stewards in Austin.
