billionaire-visionary, Max Verstappen to be called in as the new face of the Tesla Cybertruck. Musk would according to reliable sourcesNo less than 40 million dollarshave put on the table to snare the triple Formula 1 world champion for a worldwide promotion campaign.
The proposal came during a private meeting in Austin, Texas, a few days after the Grand Prix of the United States. According to insiders, Verstappen was personally invited by Musk and was given an exclusive tour of the Tesla Gigafactory, followed by a demonstration of the latest Cybertruck models.
To everyone’s surprise, however, the conversation wentcompletely different than Musk had expected. Verstappen politely listened to the proposal, looked carefully at the vehicles, but when Musk presented the official offer, Max said only one sentence:
“I don’t sell toys, I board machines.”
The words of Verstappen went around on social media like an ongoing fire. Within a few hours, #verstappenvsmusk Trending on X (formerly Twitter), and fans around the world were surprised by the cool, almost contemptuous attitude of the driver compared to an offer that many would consider “irresistible”.
Elon Musk, known for his sense of humor and pride, is said to be in Tesla according to a source“Completely speechless”have been after Verstappen’s response. It was reportedly one of the few times that he had not had a comeback.
Although the offer was very attractive financially, Verstappen seemswant to make a point: His focus is entirely on racing, and he refuses to connect his name to commercial projects that do not match his personal values.
Verstappen later stated in an interview with a Dutch sports channel:
“I respect what Elon does, but I am not an influencer. My strength is on the circuit, not in selling cars, no matter how innovative they are.”
The refusal of Verstappen not only surprised Musk, but also shaken other companies that hoped to snare him for brand deals. Max remains steadfast with his image of “Pure Racer”, someone who does not just lend his name to commercial purposes.
In the meantime, Tesla’s cyber truck campaign continues without a star player, and Elon Musk would now be in conversation with other top athletes-including American NFL stars and Hollywood icons-to fill the void.
This unexpected collision between two of the biggest names in technology and sport shows that even 40 million dollarsis not enoughTo buy integrity – certainly not if your name is Max Verstappen.
