The first time Carlos hears about the betting pool, it’s because Lando is laughing so hard he nearly drops his phone into his coffee.

They’re in the drivers’ lounge, post-simulator, half-dead in that specific way that comes from too many meetings and not enough sleep. Carlos is halfway through complaining about media training when Lando makes a noise like a dying engine.

“What,” Carlos says, instantly irritated. “What did you break now?”

Lando wheezes. “Mate...no, wait...this is...oh my god...” He slides the phone across the table. “Read.”

Carlos frowns, already bracing himself. The group chat title reads:

WHEN WILL MAX & CARLOS GET TOGETHER?