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Only F1 father Hulkenberg 'welcomes Verstappen to the club': 'Hope they're a good sleeper!'

20:35, 01 May

Updated: 20:54, 01 May

byKada Sarkozi

Max Verstappen is missing from the media day in Miami, expecting the birth of his first child. The only father on the grid is Nico Hulkenberg, who was asked about giving advice to the defending world champion.

"You know that for a fact [that Verstappen's now a father]? I don't know," the German began in Miami.

As the grid also got younger, now Hulkenberg is the only current father in Formula 1. "It’s a fun fact that I was the only, since Checo and Magnussen left at the end of last year, was the only dad. So yes, he's joining that club."

The Sauber driver did not have share much advice, but added what the Dutchman should hope for to happen. "I hope they're a good sleeper. We've been quite fortunate and lucky, but yes, I think lots to discover, many beautiful and nice things that come with that. So yes, I'm sure he'll enjoy that."

Hulkenberg not worried about myth

In Formula 1, there is a saying that once a driver becomes a father, they will lose a couple of tenths. Hulkenberg does not believe that's the case.

"Judge for yourself. Look at the stats and what happens. I think everyone is obviously different, but personally, I can only speak for myself, I don't feel that's the case. I feel once we step in the car, visor down, go out, even for me, I tend to forget what goes on outside because we're just so focused and so driven to perform and then maximise."

He also explained that being a father only helped him in his life. "I just personally felt it's added benefit because it's given me so much outside of work and outside of being in Formula 1. I would even say it's been helpful for me, if anything," he concluded.