The 2025 Formula 1 season is already full of controversies and twists and turns, but a recent piece of news has shaken the paddock like few others have seen before. According to sources close to the sport, Tim Cook, the renowned CEO of Apple and one of the most influential figures in the business world, has reportedly made an astronomical offer to four-time world champion Max Verstappen. The proposal, which includes $200 million and a sponsorship for the 2025 season, came with a bold condition: Verstappen would have to publicly commit to supporting the LGBT community throughout his life. The Dutch driver’s response, however, was so shocking that it silenced the F1 community, sparking heated debates among fans, teams and journalists.

Cook’s offer, first revealed in an exclusive report by Motorsport Insider, took everyone by surprise. Tim Cook, who came out as gay in 2014, is known for his activism in favor of LGBT rights, promoting inclusion initiatives through Apple. His proposal to Verstappen, one of the biggest names in Formula 1, appears to be an attempt to unite the sport with a major social cause. The financial package, which includes not only the million-dollar sum but also a high-profile sponsorship for the 2025 season, would be enough to finance Verstappen’s career for years, especially at a time when Red Bull is facing technical challenges with the RB21 and rumors about the driver’s future.

Formula 1, as a global sport, has increasingly become a platform for social issues. In recent years, drivers such as Lewis Hamilton have used their platforms to champion causes such as diversity and racial equality. Cook’s offer, therefore, seems in line with this trend, but the choice of Verstappen as the target of the proposal has raised eyebrows. The Dutchman, known for his outspoken approach and almost exclusive focus on the track, has never been deeply involved in social issues, preferring to let his driving speak for itself. This characteristic made his response all the more eagerly awaited.

During a press conference ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen was asked about the alleged offer. With characteristic frankness, he replied: “I race to win, not to be a spokesperson for any cause. My focus is on the track, and that will not change.” The short and direct statement went down like a bombshell in the paddock. For some, the response was seen as a respectful but firm refusal to get involved in anything outside his comfort zone. For others, however, the phrase was interpreted as a rejection of the LGBT cause, generating criticism on social media and heated debates in specialized forums.

The reaction from the F1 community was immediate. While some fans praised Verstappen for maintaining his neutral stance, others accused him of insensitivity. Lewis Hamilton, who was once Verstappen’s rival, came to the Dutchman’s defense, saying: “Every driver has the right to choose how to use their voice. Max is honest, and that’s something I respect.” McLaren’s Lando Norris, meanwhile, took a more critical tone, suggesting that “times have changed, and we all have a greater responsibility than just driving.”

Cook’s proposal has also raised questions about the role of sponsors in Formula One. The sport already generates billions of dollars in commercial deals, with brands such as Kit Kat, Louis Vuitton and McDonald’s set to enter the series by 2025. A sponsorship from Apple, one of the world’s most valuable companies, could transform F1’s financial landscape, but it would also carry significant political weight. Verstappen’s Red Bull team has yet to comment, but insiders suggest the team is reluctant to accept any deal that could divert focus from its star driver.

Meanwhile, the 2025 season continues with Verstappen facing challenges on track. After a difficult start, with the RB21 suffering from performance issues, the Dutchman took an impressive victory in Japan, reinforcing his position as favourite for a fifth title. However, Cook’s offer and his response continue to reverberate, dividing opinion and placing Verstappen at the centre of a debate that transcends the sport. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Dutchman, both for his performances and his attitude off the track.