Talk about a slippery track! Max Verstappen, the pride of the Netherlands, finds himself speeding down a winding road of accusations and legalities. Despite being showered with praises and adoration from his home crowd, he’s simultaneously battling allegations of dodging a tax bill big enough to give even the most seasoned financial expert a spin let alone the recent jail threat. But that’s not all! This weekend, the trains chugging to and from Zandvoort have been cheekily christened as a special tribute that surely brings a whole new meaning to the phrase “riding the gravy train.”

But behind the affectionate gesture lies a storm cloud of a $200 million tax allegation. A media report had surfaced, accusing Max Verstappen of evading taxes. However, Max Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, promptly refuted the allegations, he clarified that Verstappen adheres to legal and fiscal regulations, paying taxes for the income generated in the Netherlands as well as in other countries where he earns money. Despite the controversy, Verstappen’s choice of domicile in Monaco, where income taxes are not imposed, had been consistent since his 18th birthday, allowing him to take advantage of the tax benefits. But what does this all have to do with trains, you ask?

Despite swirling allegations, there’s no stopping the Max Verstappen love train in his homeland. The Dutch have gone full throttle in their tribute to the champion. The trains chugging to and from Zandvoort have been rebranded as the ‘Max Express’ for the Grand Prix weekend. Now ain’t that something! It’s more than just a name, it’s a symbol of support, a nod to the nation’s hero.

Read more: Despite Jail Threat Looming Over, Helmut Marko Downplays Max Verstappen’s Dangerous $3,500,000 Shenanigans

Yet this whimsical homage comes hot on the heels of contentious tax allegations against the champion. This cheerful gesture added a touch of levity to the intense atmosphere and celebrated Verstappen’s stature as a national icon. But with so much love in his hometown, why reside in Monaco?

The Allure of Monaco for Max Verstappen & Co.

Monaco isn’t just famed for hosting a GP, it’s a magnet for the rich and famous, particularly F1 drivers. From scenic coastline to world-class entertainment, there’s more to Monaco than meets the eye. A multitude of current and former drivers reside here, including Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Nico Rosberg, and Mika Hakkinen, to name just a few.

The no federal income tax policy attracts many, but as David Coulthard, who’s lived in Monaco since 1995, explains: “There’s ballet, there’s cinemas, theatre…and lifestyle wise and security wise, there’s a lot of benefits of being here beyond…the financial benefit.” Location, privacy, and luxury, not just fiscal allure, make Monaco a haven.

Fasten your seatbelts, for the ‘Max Express’ is not slowing down.

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