In a surprising decision that has resonated far beyond the football world, Manchester City midfield superstar Phil Foden has turned down an exorbitant $80 million sponsorship offer from billionaire Elon Musk to become the global face of Tesla’s Cybertruck. The news, first revealed during a high-profile Tesla event in Los Angeles, has taken social media by storm, with fans, business analysts, and even Musk himself shocked by Foden’s unexpected decision.

An agreement destined to change the game

Elon Musk’s proposal wasn’t just any sponsorship. Amid falling Tesla sales in Europe and persistent controversies surrounding the Cybertruck’s futuristic yet controversial design, Musk was looking for a new and charismatic ambassador to revitalize the brand’s appeal. Enter Phil Foden, the 25-year-old football prodigy, recently named 2024 Premier League Player of the Season and who played a crucial role in Manchester City’s recent title.

According to insiders, the campaign was set to be a spectacle. Foden would be seen roaming the streets of Manchester in the angular, bulletproof Cybertruck, bringing its rugged, high-tech appeal to a new generation of affluent urban buyers. The partnership had all the makings of a marketing masterstroke: uniting one of the world’s most innovative companies with one of football’s brightest young stars.

A shocking rejection

However, in a move few could have predicted, Foden politely but firmly declined the offer. In an interview with X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“I’m flattered by Mr. Musk’s approach, but my focus remains on football and my family. I can’t endorse a product I don’t fully believe in. I’d rather inspire kids to pursue their dreams on the pitch than drive a truck that doesn’t align with my values. I wish Tesla the best, but this isn’t for me.”

The simple yet powerful statement quickly went viral. The hashtag #FodenSaysNo trended worldwide within hours, and the football community, along with much of the public, erupted in debate.

Digging Deeper: Foden’s Values and Concerns

Foden’s reference to “values” immediately sparked curiosity. What was it about the Cybertruck, or perhaps Tesla as a whole, that led the young star to reject such a huge payout?

People close to Foden suggest his decision was based on both personal convictions and environmental awareness. As a father of three and a lifelong Manchester resident, Foden has become increasingly involved in local environmental initiatives and charities. He is known for supporting projects focused on sustainability and environmental education for young people.

According to sources, Foden had serious concerns about the Cybertruck’s environmental impact, not only because of its emissions, but also because of the energy-intensive process required to produce its massive batteries and the ecological damage associated with lithium mining. The Cybertruck’s reputation as a “green” vehicle, according to Foden, didn’t match the reality of its production footprint.

The Cybertruck has also faced its own share of controversies. A major recall in 2025 affected 46,000 units due to faulty steel panels, and the infamous incident in which a Cybertruck sank in Ventura Harbor—contradicting Musk’s boastful claim that the truck could “float like a boat”—further damaged its public image.

The world of football responds

The reaction from the football community was swift and overwhelmingly supportive. Manchester United legend Gary Neville called Foden’s stance “a masterclass in integrity,” praising the young star for putting principles before profit. Teammate Erling Haaland, another global superstar, joked: “Phil has more iron than that truck.”

Experts and fans alike have welcomed Foden’s decision as a sign that today’s athletes are increasingly willing to use their platforms for more than mere commercial gain. “It’s refreshing to see a player at the top of his game stand up for his beliefs,” said one BBC commentator. “Foden could have taken the money and run away, but instead he decided to send a message.”

Musk’s response and the consequences for Tesla

Even Elon Musk seemed surprised by the rejection. Known for his brash online image and tireless pursuit of celebrity collaborations, Musk responded with a rare note of humility: “Well done, Phil. Keep the hits coming.” However, the response failed to quell the debate, as industry analysts began to question the wisdom of Tesla’s celebrity-centric marketing strategy.

With Cybertruck sales lagging behind competitors like Ford’s F-150 Lightning, and Tesla’s European market share down 45% this year, the company hoped Foden’s global appeal would give it a much-needed boost. But with Foden’s public denial—and reports of other stars quietly turning down similar deals—Tesla’s strategy appears to be faltering.

A broader shift: athletes stand up for their principles

Foden’s decision is emblematic of a broader trend in sports and entertainment. Increasingly, renowned figures are using their influence to champion causes they believe in, rather than simply cashing in on lucrative sponsorship deals. In an era where authenticity matters more than ever, Foden’s decision has resonated with fans wary of corporate excess and hungry for role models who stand for something more.

“Phil Foden has proven that it’s possible to be both a superstar and a person of conviction,” said a Sky Sports analyst. “He’s set a new standard for what it means to be a role model in modern football.”