According to several international sources, British billionaire Sir Richard Branson recently caused a stir with an exceptional gesture towards Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen.

The founder of the Virgin Group, known worldwide for his extravagant lifestyle and impressive collection of supercars and luxury yachts, reportedly spent around five million dollars to invite the Dutch racing driver as a guest of honour to his 76th birthday in the UK.

Branson has been known for years as an avid fan of top-level sport and is said to have developed a special appreciation for Verstappen, who has dominated Formula 1 in recent seasons with his performances.

According to insiders, Branson closely follows Verstappen’s races and speaks privately with admiration about his discipline, mental strength, and uncompromising competitive spirit. After winning several world titles, Verstappen has reportedly become one of Branson’s favorite sporting icons.

This time, however, the billionaire reportedly didn’t limit himself to a symbolic gesture or a congratulations. Instead, he reportedly offered an extremely exclusive VIP package, specially designed to give Verstappen and his entourage a royal welcome.

The package would have included a private flight from the Netherlands to London, operated on a luxurious aircraft from Branson’s own network, complete with personalized service and maximum privacy.

Once arriving in London, Verstappen was reportedly housed in the penthouse of The Ritz London, one of the most prestigious hotels in the world.

The stay was supposed to last seven days and reportedly included full access to private facilities, personal security, and a customized schedule tailored to the driver’s wishes. Sources claim Branson was personally involved in developing this program.

The highlight of the visit was reportedly Max Verstappen’s attendance at Branson’s birthday party. The event took place in a private setting, with a guest list consisting of international business magnates, celebrities, former top athletes, and influential figures from the media and technology sectors.

Verstappen is said to have been there as a guest of honour for approximately two hours.

During the party, the Dutch driver reportedly cut the birthday cake with Branson and was photographed with several prominent guests. Witnesses described the atmosphere as exuberant yet exclusive, with strict discretion and limited media access.

According to those present, Verstappen’s presence made a great impression, not only because of his sporting status, but also because of his calm and respectful attitude.

After the ceremony, Verstappen reportedly delivered a short but emotional speech. He spoke of perseverance, teamwork, and the importance of passion, both in sports and entrepreneurship.

Several attendees reported that Branson became visibly emotional and that the moment took on an unexpectedly personal quality, despite the luxury and grandeur of the event.

While neither side has officially commented on the details of the visit, the story has already received widespread attention on social media and sports forums.

Fans are divided in their reactions, with some praising Branson for his appreciation of sporting excellence, while others question whether such extravagant spending is in keeping with the current zeitgeist.

Sports analysts point out that Max Verstappen is increasingly seen as more than just a racing driver. His global reach, business value, and influence outside the racetrack make him attractive to prominent figures in international business.

Branson’s alleged gesture is seen by some as an illustration of Verstappen’s status as a global sporting icon.

At the same time, experts emphasize that Verstappen is known for his focus and restraint off the track. He’s known for carefully balancing commercial and social commitments with his sporting goals. If the visit did indeed take place, insiders say it would fit within his limited but selective public appearances.

For Sir Richard Branson, this story fits a longer pattern. The billionaire has frequently invited top athletes, artists, and visionaries to private events, connecting sport and entrepreneurship. His interest in performance under pressure and innovation closely aligns with the mentality Verstappen displays on the track.

Whether all the details of the alleged VIP visit are accurate remains a matter of speculation. What is certain is that the story demonstrates once again how sport, power, and prestige continue to intersect at the highest level.

In a world where elite athletes are increasingly seen as cultural and commercial icons, such stories are perhaps inevitable.

For Max Verstappen, the focus remains on Formula 1 for the time being. With new races, titles, and records on the horizon, his name seems to be a constant presence on both the sports pages and the international gossip and business columns.

Whether it’s his performances on the track or special invitations off it, Verstappen remains one of the most talked about figures in the global sporting world.