Max Verstappen, the dominant Red Bull Formula One driver, has unexpectedly drawn attention for a two-word message about Leeds United as the Premier League club returns to top-flight football. Ahead of the 2025 Silverstone Grand Prix, Verstappen’s short remark reflects a growing connection between the racing champion and the West Yorkshire football team, highlighting a notable crossover between the worlds of motorsport and football.
Leeds United secured promotion back to the Premier League, reigniting interest in the club’s future ambitions. Their owners, led by Paraag Marathe, are pushing for sustained success, including European competition qualification, which aligns with the drive and winning nature associated with Verstappen’s Red Bull team in Formula One.
How Verstappen and Leeds United’s Ambitions Align
Verstappen has been the dominant figure in F1 for the last four years, winning multiple World Championships, and his association with Leeds United is partly due to the shared ownership links involving Red Bull. This connection has fueled speculation and hope among Leeds fans and management that the club can emulate Verstappen’s winning formula in football.
During a playful interaction on Red Bull’s TikTok page, Verstappen correctly identified Leeds United’s badge among various football club crests and responded with the simple yet affectionate phrase, “Very lovely,” showing genuine regard for the club. This brief message has sparked buzz on social media, as it hinted at Verstappen’s support for Leeds’ rise.
The 2024 Silverstone Meeting and its Superstitions
In July 2024, after the Silverstone Grand Prix, Verstappen met several members of the Leeds squad, including captain Ethan Ampadu and former player Georginio Rutter, who later moved to Brighton. A photo from this gathering circulating online even inspired some playful rumors about Verstappen potentially signing for Leeds.
However, this meeting coincided with an unexpected dry spell in Verstappen’s F1 race wins. After holding up a Leeds United shirt for photos, Verstappen experienced a winless streak that lasted until November 2024, when he finally broke the run. This superstition has been revisited now that Verstappen has again mentioned Leeds ahead of the Silverstone race in 2025, raising questions about whether the association might affect his performance.
Leeds United’s Premier League Return and Future Aspirations
Leeds’ promotion to the Premier League after a period outside the top tier has energized the club and its supporters. Manager Daniel Farke’s team has been praised as deserving of their spot, reinforcing the belief that Leeds rightfully belong among England’s elite clubs.
The club’s owners are prepared to back the team financially, with discussions indicating a potential transfer budget of around £150 million this summer. While it remains uncertain how much of this will be invested, the intent is clear: Leeds aim not only to stabilize in the Premier League but to challenge for higher achievements, including continental competition.
Verstappen’s positive remarks and his links with the Red Bull family add an interesting layer to Leeds United’s narrative, blending the excitement of Formula One racing with football ambitions and helping raise the club’s profile globally ahead of what promises to be a pivotal season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Max Verstappen and Kelly Piquet shared the news of their newborn daughter just before the Miami Grand Prix. They have announced the birth of their first child, a baby girl, together.