Kelly Piquet and Friends are Helping Max Verstappen Embrace His 'Brazilian Side'

Gabriel Bortoleto revealed that Max Verstappen is becoming 'more Brazilian' thanks to his partner Kelly Piquet and his Brazilian circle. Bortoleto, ahead of his home GP at Interlagos, also shared how Verstappen has been a significant mentor in his journey to F1, from sim racing to understanding Portuguese.

Why it matters:

Max Verstappen's personal life often stays out of the spotlight, but his deepening connection to Brazilian culture through Kelly Piquet and his friends like Gabriel Bortoleto offers a rare glimpse into the human side of the F1 champion. For Bortoleto, Verstappen's mentorship highlights the invaluable support young talents receive from established drivers, crucial for navigating the demanding path to Formula 1.

The Details:

• Verstappen's Brazilian Connection: Bortoleto jokingly noted that Kelly Piquet and the many Brazilians in Verstappen's inner circle are making him 'more Brazilian' with each race.
• Mentorship and Sim Racing: Verstappen has been a crucial mentor for Bortoleto since F3, helping him with sim racing and games, and guiding his path to Formula 1.
• Portuguese Understanding: Bortoleto revealed that Verstappen understands Portuguese "very well," even if he doesn't speak it, indicating a deeper immersion into the culture than many might realize.

The Big Picture:

This interaction underscores the close-knit community within motorsports, where established champions often take rising stars under their wing. For Verstappen, his relationship with Kelly Piquet has clearly opened doors to a new cultural experience, subtly influencing his life outside the cockpit. For Bortoleto, receiving guidance from a four-time world champion is an unparalleled advantage in a highly competitive sport, providing insights and support that accelerate his development.

What's Next:

Bortoleto is set to make his debut at his home GP in Interlagos, a significant milestone in his promising rookie season. His performance there, coupled with Verstappen's continued influence, will be keenly watched as he aims to make his mark in Formula 1. The subtle cultural shifts in Verstappen's life, while not directly impacting his racing, show how personal connections can enrich the lives of even the most focused athletes.