In an unexpected turn that has shaken both the technology and sports world, Apple CEO Tim Cook has made a stunning range of $ 24 million to Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen. The deal? Verstappen would be the face of Apple’s upcoming marketing campaign, aimed at the revolutionary new functions of the next generation iPhone and other product lines.

Sports equipment

According to several sources close to the negotiations, Verstappen would have been asked to be prominent in a worldwide campaign, including commercials, social media expressions and live events. Apple’s intention was to link their new iPhone models, with groundbreaking AI integrations and augmented reality functions, to the speed, precision and dominance that Verstappen embodies.

But Verstappen’s answer? One short but destructive sense:
“I don’t drive for money, I drive for victories.”

The reaction of the triple world champion caused a true explosion of reactions on social media. Within a few hours the quotation trending on X (formerly Twitter), and fans worldwide were praised his dedication to sport. Some called it “the most respectful rejection ever”, while others wondered whether he would ever consider a commercial collaboration with a tech giant like Apple in the future.

Insiders suggest that Tim Cook was personally involved in the approach, convinced that Verstappen – who has millions of fans worldwide – would be the perfect face to represent the power and elegance of Apple’s products. The amount of $ 24 million would have made Verstappen one of the best -paid sports ambassadors in Apple, comparable to collaborations that the company previously had with stars such as LeBron James and Taylor Swift.

Sports equipment

Although the offer has been rejected, the incident has opened its doors for a broader debate about the commercialization of sport and the role of athletes in global brand campaigns. Some admire Verstappen for his “old school” mentality, others think he leaves a unique opportunity to further expand his image outside the circuits.

Apple has not yet given an official response to the rejection, but sources within the company indicate that people are “deeply disappointed”. In the meantime, Verstappen focuses entirely on the second half of the F1 season, in which he is again a favorite for the championship.

One thing is certain: with just one sentence, Max Verstappen has again proven that he is not only a ruthless driver, but also a man of principles.