After a two-year wait, Max Verstappen‘s new yacht was launched in a private event and reports claim the $15-million, 33-meter luxury vessel is named “Unleash the Lion.”
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the 33-meter masterpiece, part of the prestigious Mangusta GranSport series was officially delivered to the four-time F1 World Champion and his partner Kelly Piquet at the Overmarine shipyard in Viareggio, Italy.
The unveiling of Verstappen’s new yacht was a private affair, reflecting the couple’s preference for discretion amidst the Dutchman’s immense global fame.
The yacht’s name, “Unleash the Lion,” is a nod to Verstappen’s personal branding and competitive spirit. The lion motif has been a recurring theme throughout his career, symbolizing his fierce determination and dominance on the Formula 1 circuit.
The latest acquisition is not just a luxury item but also a deeply personal statement that encapsulates Verstappen’s journey from a rising star to a reigning champion.
Verstappen’s new yacht is a Mangusta GranSport 33, renowned for its cutting-edge technology and bespoke design. Measuring an impressive 33 meters in length, the luxurious high-end vessel is tailored to his specifications, ensuring it aligns perfectly with his bold personality and unrelenting pursuit of perfection.
The number “33” prominently displayed on the yacht holds special significance as it represents Verstappen’s racing number, which has become synonymous with his meteoric rise in Formula 1.
Although he occasionally races under the number “1” as the reigning world champion, “33” remains an integral part of his identity.
The delivery of “Unleash the Lion” marks the culmination of a two-year project. Verstappen placed the order in 2023, and since then, meticulous attention has been paid to every detail to ensure that the yacht meets his exacting standards.
Verstappen’s new yacht features luxurious interiors designed for comfort and elegance, as well as state-of-the-art marine technology that guarantees exceptional performance on the water. With accommodations for up to 12 guests in five staterooms and space for five crew members in three cabins, the yacht offers both privacy and opulence.
The launch event was characterized by minimal fanfare as Verstappen and Piquet arrived in Viareggio accompanied by a small entourage. Security measures were heightened to maintain privacy during the handover ceremony.
The couple toured the yacht alongside representatives from Overmarine, discussing its features and final touches before taking possession of their new vessel.
Verstappen’s new yacht now places him among an elite group of sports icons who own Mangusta yachts, including football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Roberto Mancini. At just 27 years old, the Red Bull star is one of the youngest athletes to indulge in such an extravagant purchase.
The timing of this purchase coincides with Verstappen’s continued dominance in Formula 1. Fresh off securing his fourth consecutive World Championship title in 2024, the Dutchman has solidified his status as one of the greatest drivers in the sport’s history.
His earnings from Red Bull Racing alone are estimated at $60 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid athletes globally. This financial success enables him to invest in high-value assets like “Unleash the Lion,” which serves as both a reward for his achievements and an emblem of his lifestyle.
While details about where Verstappen’s new yacht will be docked remain unclear, speculation points to several possibilities.
As a resident of Monaco—a hub for luxury yachts—Verstappen may choose to keep “Unleash the Lion” there for easy access during his downtime. Alternatively, he could opt for ports in his home country of the Netherlands or even retain its location in Viareggio, which boasts a vibrant yachting community.
Beyond its luxurious amenities, “Unleash the Lion” represents a strategic addition to Verstappen’s personal brand.
Known for his passion for performance and precision both on and off the track, this yacht aligns seamlessly with his image as a global sporting icon. It also provides him with an ideal retreat from the intense demands of professional racing.
Verstappen’s partner, Kelly Piquet—daughter of three-time Formula 1 World Champion Nelson Piquet—shares his love for luxury and adventure. The couple frequently spends their vacations near water, making this yacht a perfect complement to their lifestyle.
With their first child expected later this year, Verstappen’s new yacht may also serve as a family getaway where they can create cherished memories away from public scrutiny.
