Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen and his partner Kelly Piquet have made headlines for a heartwarming reason — stepping forward with a generous donation to support flood relief efforts in the United States after a devastating wave of historic rainfall and flooding paralyzed much of the East Coast.
The Dutch driver and his Brazilian partner have reportedly donated over $1 million to emergency aid organizations responding to catastrophic flooding in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas, where millions remain under flash flood warnings and emergency conditions have been declared.
In a statement shared with the press, Max Verstappen said:
“When we saw the scale of the devastation in the U.S., especially families losing their homes and lives disrupted, we knew we had to act. Racing gives us a global platform, but it also gives us a responsibility. We’re standing with the people of New York, New Jersey, and all those affected.”
The donation will be distributed across several organizations, including the American Red Cross and local rescue operations in New Jersey and New York, to support shelter, food, medical care, and rebuilding efforts.
Kelly Piquet added on social media:
“My heart breaks for the 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren and families affected. These are not just statistics; these are people who need help now.”
Social media erupted with praise for the couple’s gesture, with hashtags like #VerstappenForGood and #MaxCares trending on X (formerly Twitter). Many fans noted that Verstappen’s action showed a “champion’s heart” off the track — especially at a time when extreme weather events have become more frequent and deadly.
Over the past few weeks, the U.S. has been battered by relentless rain, with New York City recording its second-highest hourly rainfall in history — over 50mm in a single hour — just behind the infamous Hurricane Ida in 2021. Subways were flooded, flights delayed, and entire neighborhoods submerged.
The disaster echoes the growing concern around climate resilience, something both Verstappen and Piquet have been vocal about in recent years.
As rescue teams continue to assist the thousands displaced and at risk, Verstappen’s donation brings not only much-needed aid — but also hope.
“Winning races is one thing,” Max said, “but helping people get back on their feet — that means everything.”