Lewis Hamilton reveals private Max Verstappen conversation as George Russell dispels myth

has revealed that he had a conversation with former F1 title rival about the imminent birth of his first child. The four-time world champion was absent from media day duties at the Miami Grand Prix with the 27-year-old anticipating the birth of his first child. A Red Bull statement released on Thursday explained: "Max will not be attending media day in Miami as he is expecting a baby.

"All is well, and he will attend [the] track tomorrow for the race weekend. We will not be offering any further comment at this time in respect towards the privacy of Max and his family." News of the baby has been public since December, with Kelly Piqeut's social media comments pointing towards a birth in the spring of 2025.

With the birth rapidly approaching, Verstappen and Hamilton shared a conversation during the previous round of the season in Saudi Arabia. "So I spoke to him briefly in Saudi and saw how excited he was, and big congrats to him," the Brit said in Miami on Thursday. He also added: "I just wish him all the best. It's an amazing, such a special thing."

Verstappen is now set to become one of just two drivers on the grid with children - the other being Sauber's Nico Hulkenberg - but according to Mercedes racer George Russell, there is no concern that the Dutchman's new responsibilities as a father will impact his on-track performances.

"You've seen drivers in the past win championships, win races, who have got kids, so I don't see a change in anything on his professional level," the Brit responded when asked about the myth that drivers lose speed after having children.

Russell and Verstappen have aired grievances with one another in the past and fell out over the Brit's approach to a steward meeting in Qatar last season, but the Mercedes driver made his feelings clear in wishing the Red Bull driver well with his new adventure.

"I think we're all professionals, but this is a personal part of your life," he explained. "And I guess for anybody who's had a kid, it's a pretty special moment. All the best to them.

"And as Nico said, I think for many people, it probably brings things to your life. I know what it's like when I see my nieces and nephews, they're not my kids, but they bring me so much joy when I spend time with them."