We have seen quite a bit of F1 drivers backed by their fathers, who were also drivers. But how about having a mother with a racing background? Well, Max Verstappen is lucky as he is bestowed with both.

Sophie Kumpen, the mother of the Dutchman, has always been an important figure in his life. From teaching the 24-year-old driver about driving to keeping unique traditions ahead of race week, Kumpen has always been there for her son.

Talking about this, Kumpen revealed, “In F1, the Max’s first win race for Red Bull. I’ve started since to burn a candle and now I’m doing it every race on Thursday. I go to the little church here in town and I burn a candle and make a prayer then, I send the picture to Max.”

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As stated by the Belgian former racing driver herself, Kumpen performs the unique tradition out of goodwill. In the interview with WagsF1, Sophie Kumpen also revealed her favorite moment in racing was her win in Italy (Margutti Trophy).

Details about Sophie Kumpen, mother of Max Verstappen

There’s a saying that behind every successful man, there’s a woman. The woman might be a mother, a sister, a wife, a partner, or a daughter. Let’s not go into detail about the sanctity of the saying, but the Dutchman surely has a well-wisher in the form of a woman.

Kumpen, who herself is a renowned Karting champion, has given up on her career to focus on Max Verstappen’s and his sister Victoria Verstappen’s education and career. Post her racing days, she leads her life as an interior designer.

The 44-year-old former karting driver was a prized racing driver at her age. Kumpen is not only a two-time Belgian karting champion but has also driven against formidable F1 personalities like Jan Magnussen, Jarno Trulli, Giancarlo Fisichella, Dario Franchitti, and even Christian Horner.

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Sophie Kumpen is surely a woman who stands out in the Formula 1 world. Needless to say, her sacrifices have helped Max reach where he finds himself today.