Immediately after the GP of Belgium, Max Verstappen not only shocked his dominant victory over the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, but especially because of what he did in silence afterwards-far away from cameras and media striking. Without prior notice, the four -time world champion traveled to Milan, where he visited a childhood cancer hospital. An act of unprecedented humanity followed: Verstappen donated its full prize money of more than 45 million euros to the hospital, with one goal – saving lives.
According to sources close to the hospital, nobody in the department had known about his arrival. Verstappen arrived without entourage, in normal clothing, and spoke with doctors, nurses and dozens of young patients. His presence only became known when a nurse reported anonymously to Italian media a few hours later. “He didn’t want attention,” said a hospital spokesperson. “He just wanted to do something that matters.”
The donation, which was immediately designated as one of the largest private contributions to pediatric oncology in Europe, is intended to cover the medical costs of hundreds of children who are not insured or come from refugee families. In addition, Verstappen promised to finance the entire treatment process – including expensive experimental therapies – for the toughest cases.
His message to the hospital was briefly, but powerful:
“My victory is the hope that they will continue to fight.”
The impact of these words was deep. Staff and families in the hospital were moved to tears. A doctor later stated: “This is not a racer, this is a man with a big heart. The children here have no idea who Max Verstappen is, but what he did today will feel them forever.”
Fans all over the world responded with disbelief and emotion. Where many top athletes associate with luxury, fame and detachment, Verstappen showed a very different side. The hashtag#MaxForHopeImmediately started to trend on X (formerly Twitter), with thousands of messages from support, respect and gratitude.
Even within the Formula 1 world, the gesture did not go unnoticed. Former champion Sebastian Vettel, known for his social involvement, praised Verstappen publicly. “This is what real greatness means,” he said. “Not just on the job, but in life.”
Red Bull Racing confirmed the donation shortly after leaking the news and said “to be proud of the man behind the helmet.” Christian Horner added: “Max did something today that you rarely see in this sport. He has let his heart speak.”
Although Verstappen himself has not made a public statement about his action, it is clear that his victory in Belgium meant more to him than a trophy. For the children in Milan – and for many worldwide – Max Verstappen is not only a champion on the track, but also beyond.
