Here’s how turning down a chance with Max Verstappen cost a fortune for one businessman.
- A Dutch businessman lost millions by rejecting an investment in Max Verstappen.
- Despite past investments in Jos Verstappen, this opportunity slipped through the cracks.
- Podcast revelations reveal a regretful decision involving one of F1’s top drivers.
- With Max’s soaring career, that decision looks more costly by the day.
In an amusing twist of fate, a Dutch businessman named Michel Perridon shared a story of financial misjudgment. Appearing on the Dutch Dragons podcast, once known for his involvement in the Dutch version of Dragons’ Den, Perridon confessed to a missed opportunity that now bears a hefty price tag. Having already sponsored Max’s father, Jos Verstappen, during his racing career, Perridon was approached with a golden chance. He was asked to invest $5 million for a 10% share of Max Verstappen’s lifetime earnings. For Perridon, who had already shelled out millions on Jos, the financial commitment was a step too far.
Perridon’s response was a resounding no. He humorously labeled his decision as a ‘small mistake,’ a term that seems to grossly underplay the financial implications. At present, Max Verstappen is riding high with a base salary of about $60 million annually with Red Bull, translating to a potential $6 million each year for any investor holding that 10% share. It’s a figure only expected to grow as Verstappen garners more wins and championships.
During the podcast, Perridon chuckled at his decision, yet couldn’t deny the magnitude of his misstep. This prompted further teasing from the podcast panel, who gleefully labeled it a ‘big mistake.’ However, Perridon’s current net worth of approximately €384 million suggests he’s managing just fine despite foregoing this lucrative opportunity.
Interestingly, Perridon’s tale of missed investment coincided with a victorious weekend for Jos Verstappen. Jos, along with navigator Renaud Jamoul, clinched a thrilling win at the Rallye de Wallonie, marking their third triumph of the Belgian Rally Championship season. Despite starting behind leader Cedric Cherain, an unexpected electronic failure on Cherain’s part paved the way for Jos to secure the top spot. Jos remarked on how they had to push through every stage, particularly on straights, to capitalize on their competitor’s misfortune and elevate their own performance.
This revelation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of investments, especially in the high-stakes world of motorsport.
