Billionaire Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, is in the headlines again, but this time for his controversial reactions to the decisions of Finnish athletes. World Rally Championship star Kalle Rovanperä and Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas both declined Musk’s offers of cooperation contracts, and Musk’s response has sparked widespread debate. X and Finnish media outlets such as Iltalehti and Yle Urheilu report that Musk reacted to the refusals with childish scolding, questioning the professionalism and motives of the Finns. This episode reflects Musk’s tendency to take personal criticism when his offers are rejected, and highlights Rovanperä and Bottas’ commitment to their own values.

Musk was rumored to have approached Rovanperä with a $10 million sponsorship deal that would combine the Tesla brand with the rally star’s global appeal. Rovanperä, who dominated the 2025 World Championship, turned down the offer after the Rally Sardinia, telling MTV News: “Rally is my passion, and I want to keep it real.” His decision was in line with his previous stance of putting the purity of the sport ahead of financial incentives. Musk’s reaction, however, was scathing. On X, he wrote: “If the world champion doesn’t see the value in Tesla, maybe he’s not as smart as I thought.” The comment enraged Finnish fans, and on X, the hashtag #KalleOnKuningas trended as users praised Rovanperä’s principled stance.

A similar situation arose with Bottas, who received an offer from Musk’s team to join Tesla’s autonomous driving technology development project as a consultant. Bottas, who is focusing on his cycling career and a possible F1 return to the Cadillac team in 2025, declined the offer. According to Yle Urheilu, Bottas justified his decision by wanting to focus on racing and his independence. Musk’s response was again snarky. In X, he implied that “Bottas is afraid of technology that overtakes his driving skills.” This prompted F1 fans, especially Finns, to defend Bottas, who responded with restraint on Instagram: “I respect technology, but my heart is on the track.” Bottas’ calm attitude only emphasized Musk’s reaction as even more childish.

Musk’s snarky behavior is not a new phenomenon. According to a report in Iltalehti, he has previously responded to criticism with personal attacks, such as in 2025, when he criticized Donald Trump in X for a bill that removed tax breaks for electric cars. Musk’s tendency to provoke is part of his brand, but in this case it has backfired. Finnish athletes, known for their quiet determination, have received widespread support. In X, users like @RalliFani123 wrote: “Kalle and Valtteri showed that money can’t buy everything. Musk can snark, but Finns win hearts.”

Rovanperä’s 2025 season has been incredible, and he is second in the World Championship after the Canary Islands Rally, just 30 points behind Elfyn Evans. His performances, including 12 pole positions in the Canary Islands, show why he is at the top of the sport. Bottas, meanwhile, has focused on charity events and cycling, but Yle Urheilu expert Jukka Mildh believes he is in talks with Cadillac about a return to F1. Both athletes have shown that their priorities are racing and principles, not Musk’s promises.

Musk’s reaction reflects a broader picture of his public persona. He has often been embroiled in controversy, such as in 2025 when he supported Germany’s far-right AfD party and was accused of giving a Nazi salute. His X-posts have sparked outrage, and Finnish fans are now part of this backlash. Rovanperä and Bottas’ refusal was not only a personal choice but also a symbolic gesture that highlights Finnish “soul” – the ability to remain steadfast under pressure.

This episode solidifies Rovanperä and Bottas’ status as national heroes. Their decision to turn down Musk’s offers not only demonstrates their commitment to the sport, but also inspires fans worldwide. As Rovanperä prepares for the Greek and Estonian gravel rallies and Bottas keeps the door open for a return to F1, their stories are a reminder that true success is measured by passion and integrity, not billions. Musk’s sleaze may continue, but the Finnish stars’ light shines brighter than ever.