Max Verstappen delivers first interview since becoming a father

Max Verstappen has delivered his first interview since becoming a father, which saw the Red Bull driver miss media day ahead of the Miami Grand Prix. 

The Dutchman and his partner, Kelly Piquet, welcomed the birth of their first child together this week, delaying Verstappen's travel plans. 

He opted to miss media day to spend the initial days with his partner and their newborn baby, named Lily. 

"Luckily I got to spend a few days with them, when she was born," Verstappen told ESPN. "And, yeah, it's been great. 

"You'd never really, I guess know what to expect, but it's been very enjoyable, and it's, for sure, very special."

Whilst it is Verstappen's first child, it is not a complete step into the unknown for the four-time world champion. 

The Red Bull driver has been introduced to the world of fatherhood, having been with Piquet since her eldest daugher, Penelope, was just one years old. 

"The thing is that I'm kind of like a bonus dad already, of course, with my girlfriend already having one daughter," added Verstappen. 

"So I saw her grow up since she was one-year old, and for sure that helps a lot already, to prepare for your own child."

With the arrival of Lily, one important question has been put to Verstappen: will it impact his simulator racing time?

"I think that will work out," joked the 27-year-old. Who knows, maybe in the future, we can do it together. 

"Honestly, like everyone does it in their own way, right? And for some people, yeah, they have other hobbies or passions and stuff like that, but it will all work out."