In a shocking development just hours before the start of the Miami Grand Prix weekend, reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has pulled out of the race to be by his father Jos Verstappen’s side after the Dutch racing veteran was involved in a serious accident during the Rally Wallonia in Belgium.
According to initial reports, Jos Verstappen, 54, lost control of his rally car on a high-speed stage in the Walloon region early Saturday morning. The vehicle reportedly veered off the track, collided with a safety barrier, and flipped multiple times. Emergency services were quick to respond, airlifting Jos to a nearby hospital where he is currently in critical but stable condition with multiple fractures and internal injuries. Doctors have described his situation as “serious but not life-threatening at this stage.”
Team Red Bull Racing confirmed the news in a brief statement: “Max has made the decision to withdraw from the Miami Grand Prix to be with his family. Our thoughts are with Jos Verstappen and his loved ones. We fully support Max’s choice and will provide updates as appropriate.”
Max Verstappen, who had been dominating the 2026 season with three wins in the opening four races, released a short message on social media: “Family comes first. I need to be with my dad right now. Please respect our privacy during this difficult time. Thank you to everyone sending messages of support.”
The 28-year-old Dutchman’s absence creates a major shake-up in the championship battle. With Verstappen out, teammate Sergio Pérez will lead the Red Bull charge, while McLaren’s Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, along with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, are now strong favorites for the Miami victory.
Rally Wallonia organizers have paused the event pending a full investigation into the incident. Jos Verstappen, a former F1 driver himself with 106 Grand Prix starts, has been an active and competitive rally driver in recent years, often competing in historic and regional events.
F1 fans around the world have flooded social media with well-wishes for the Verstappen family. The sport has a long history of family tragedies, and many are hoping for a swift recovery for Jos so that Max can return to the cockpit soon.
As the Miami Grand Prix weekend continues without its biggest star, the paddock remains united in support. Updates on Jos Verstappen’s condition are expected later today.