Drive to Survive: The fast lane romances of Formula 1
Drive to Survive S7 airs on Netflix today and the 2025 Formula 1 season starts soon, these are the women supporting the drivers off the track.
In the high-octane world of Formula 1, where drivers navigate speed and precision, the personal lives of these athletes often pique public interest.
Behind many of these racers stand supportive partners—wives, and girlfriends—who play pivotal roles in their journeys both on and off the track.
When not at the paddock, these women are busy raising families and cultivating impressive careers.
For example, Lily Muni He, who is dating William’s driver Alex Albon, is a professional golfer, while Max Verstappen’s partner, Kelly Piquet has modelled for prestigious brands like Louis Vuitton.
As Formula 1: Drive to Survive season 7 airs on Netflix today, 7 March, and the 2025 F1 season kicks off next week, these women will be trackside supporting the drivers.
Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet
Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen, the multiple World Champion, has been in a relationship with Brazilian/ Dutch model and public relations professional Kelly Piquet (36) since 2020.
Kelly is the daughter of three-time Formula 1 World Champion Nelson Piquet. Their relationship became public in January 2021 when Verstappen shared a photo of them together on social media.
In December last year, the couple announced they would be expecting their first child together. Kelly has a daughter, Penelope from her previous relationship with ex-Red Bull driver Daniil Kvyat.
Kelly and Penelope can often be seen in the Red Bull garage supporting Max and his fellow drivers.
According to Express, the Dutch driver has confirmed he won’t be missing any Formula 1 races this year, even if it coincides with the birth of his child.
Carlos Sainz and Rebecca Donaldson
Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jr. and Scottish model and entrepreneur Rebecca Donaldson were first spotted together in Milan in June 2023.
Rebecca is Scottish and based in the United Kingdom. She is a model currently represented by Brand Model Management and has been on the covers of Elle, Vogue Ukraine, and Marie Claire México. She has also appeared in other fashion and beauty editorials.
While she remains private about many details of her background, she has caught the public’s attention with her independent spirit and distinctive style.
Carlos and Rebecca keep their relationship private and are not often seen together on social media.
Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint Mleuw
Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc has been linked to Alexandra Saint Mleuw since 2023, according to People.
Their romance blends two very different worlds—social media and motorsport – making them one of the most talked-about couples in Formula 1.
Alexandra is pursuing an art history degree in Paris and curates an Instagram account dedicated to her artistic discoveries. While her personal Instagram remains private, she actively shares content on TikTok, where she has garnered over 2.4 million followers.
According to Marie Claire, Alexandra is a successful content creator, counting Rhode partnerships as just one of her highest profile collaborations, she’s also worked as an art assistant at prestige auction house Hôtel Des Ventes De Monte-Carlo, and on campaigns for Monaco Art Week.
The couple has shared glimpses of their relationship on social media, showcasing their shared love for travel and adventure.
George Russell and Carmen Montero Mundt
According to Crash, British driver George Russell has been dating Carmen Montero Mundt since 2020.
Born in Spain, Carmen moved to the United Kingdom when she was 18 and went to the University of Westminster. She is a business and finance graduate and has worked in investor relations.
The pair met through a mutual friend in London and Carmen has been a supportive presence in George’s career, often attending races and celebrating his achievements.
OSCAR PIASTRI AND LILLY ZNEIMER
Australian driver, Oscar Piastri and Lily Zneimer have been dating since they were 17 years old.
According to People, the couple’s story began during their time at Haileybury College in Hertford, England, where they met and started dating in their penultimate year.
In 2018, she was one of a handful of Haileybury students who earned the best GCSE exam results in the school’s history, according to the school’s website.
Despite Piastri’s rising fame, the pair have maintained a relatively low profile, with Zneimer often supporting him at various races and events.
Valtteri Bottas and Tiffany Cromwell
Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas is in a relationship with Australian cyclist Tiffany Cromwell.
According to AdelaideNow, the couple met at a Monaco pub in early 2020. Both at the height of their respective careers, they found common ground in their shared passions for adventure, travel, and culinary delights.
Tiffany is a professional cyclist racing on the UCI Women’s World Tour. She represented Australia in numerous World Championships and the 2014 Glasgow and 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Tiffany studied fashion after graduating high school and has done freelance work on cycling kit designs. She has created designs for various people and collaborated with brands to release a couple of Tiffany Jane limited edition cycling kits.
The athletic duo shares a passion for sports and often supports each other’s careers, attending events and training together.
FORMULA 1 RELATIONSHIPS
These relationships highlight the personal dimensions of Formula 1 drivers, showcasing the support and companionship that accompany them beyond the racetrack. While the spotlight often shines on their professional achievements, the partners of these drivers play integral roles in their lives, offering stability and support amidst the high-pressure world of motorsport.
Which Formula 1 couple’s story surprised you the most — and whose journey are you most excited to follow this season?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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