Christian Horner and Yuki Tsunoda’s advice to new dad…

The Formula 1 paddock is reacting to the news that Max Verstappen has become a father. His Red Bull teammate Yuki Tsunoda posted a video on Friday sending his well wishes. “Hey big daddy,” the clip began. “Huge congratulations. Wishing you and Kelly [Piquet] all the best, I can’t wait to see your baby.”

Christian Horner, who is a father-of-three, also offered his own words of wisdom. “Hey Max, many, many, many congratulations on becoming a dad,” the Red Bull team principal said in the clip. “What a wonderful addition to your families, so get ready for some late nights and early mornings, and make sure you get involved in the nappy changing, that’s compulsory.”

He added, “This is great news for you, Kelly and P [Kelly’s daughter Penelope] and all the very best from us.” The couple announced the birth of their daughter Lily on Instagram, writing, “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily. Our hearts are fuller than ever - you are our greatest gift. We love you so much.”

Meanwhile, Nico Hulkenberg lost his status as the only dad on the Formula 1 grid. The Sauber driver was asked about the news during media day, which Verstappen skipped in order to be with Piquet in Monaco.

“It was a fun fact that since Checo and K-Mag left at the end of last year I was the only dad,” Hulkenberg said. “He’s joining that club. I hope it’s a good sleeper! We’ve been quite fortunate and lucky. Lots of discovery. Many beautiful and nice things that come with that. I’m sure he will enjoy that.”

Hulkenberg shares daughter Noemi Sky, who was born in 2021, with his wife Egle Ruskyte. He was quick to dismiss the notion that drivers slow down after having kids. “Judge for yourself. Look at the stats and what happens,” Hulkenberg told reporters.

“I think everyone is obviously different, but I can only speak for myself and personally I don’t feel that’s the case. He went on, “I feel once we step in the car, visor down, even for me, I tend to forget what goes on outside of the car because we are so focused and driven to perform and maximise. I just personally feel it’s an added benefit because it’s given me so much outside of work and being in Formula 1. I would even say it’s been helpful for me if anything.”