In an impressive development that has sent shock waves through the Formula 1 community, reports have emerged alleging that Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, an outstanding billionaire and defender of the LGBT community, offered the three times world champion of F1 Max Verstappen an unprecedented contract of $ 250 million, along with the complete sponsorship of Red Bull Racing during the 2025 season? Verstappen would need to star in a public advertising campaign promising indefinite support for the LGBT community. The response of the Dutch driver, a unique and powerful prayer, has left the wobble of the F1 world and caused an intense debate on social networks and beyond.
According to un verified sources that circulate in X, Cook’s offer was presented as a historical opportunity to align one of Motorsport’s largest stars with a global social cause. The proposed agreement would have seen Verstappen, known for its fierce competitiveness and meaningless attitude, become a public figure for inclusion, with Apple’s financial support raising the Red Bull Racing budget at new heights. The sponsorship would have included the brand in the car, the helmet and clothing of the Verstappen team, ensuring maximum visibility for the campaign. The sum of $ 250 million, a figure that is rarely seen in the F1 sponsorship agreements, stressed the magnitude of Cook’s proposal.
However, Verstappen, the 27 -year -old Red Bull star, rejected the offer with a succinct and pointed response: “I run for all, not for the agendas.” This unique prayer, delivered through a private message to Cook representatives, has been acclaimed by some as a master class in neutrality, while others have criticized it as a lost opportunity to defend a vital cause. The answer has lit a reactions storm, with fans, experts and even drivers’ companions intervening in their implications.
In X, publications on the alleged exchange have become viral, with hashtags like #Verstappensysno and #F1Drama trends worldwide. The supporters of the Verstappen position argue that their response reflects their commitment to maintain separate sports from political or social campaigns. “Max is about races, not preaching,” a fan published. “He is not here to boost anyone’s narrative, he is here to win.” Others, however, expressed their disappointment, and some accused the driver of avoiding the opportunity to use their platform for a positive impact. “$ 250 million could have financed inclusion programs worldwide,” wrote a critic. “Why not take a position?”
The Paddock F1 has been equally divided. Sources close to Red Bull Racing indicate that the director of the Christian Horner team was not aware of the offer until he leaked, and the team has not published any official statement. Meanwhile, rival teams such as Mercedes and McLaren have remained silent, although anonymous experts suggest that the offer has caused discussions about the role of corporate sponsorships in the configuration of public people of drivers.
Tim Cook, known for his defense for diversity and inclusion, has not publicly commented on the supposed offer. Apple’s public relations team also refused to confirm or deny the reports, leaving space to speculate on the intentions of the technological giant. Some analysts suggest that the measure was part of a broader strategy to align Apple’s brand with high profile athletes, while others see it as a bold attempt to influence the cultural landscape of motor racing.
Verstappen, meanwhile, has remained focused on its careers. Just out of another dominant performance in the 2024 season, he is preparing for the 2025 campaign, where he is expected to pursue a fourth consecutive pilot championship. His response to Cook, whether intentional or not, has consolidated his reputation as a driver that prioritizes his trade over external pressures. However, the consequences of this saga are far from finishing, with the F1 community preparing for more debates about the intersection of sport, money and social causes.
As the 2025 season progresses, one thing is clear: the unique prayer of Verstappen has not only silenced the world of F1, but also caused a conversation that will resonate much beyond the racing track.
