In an explosive development that has rocked the world of motorsport, Max Verstappen has been officially banned from all Formula 1 activities by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The decision comes after an internal investigation revealed that the Red Bull Racing driver submitted a confidential FIA document—referred to as a ‘secret text’—under the false identity of “Franz Hermann.”
The FIA confirmed the sanction early Thursday morning, stating that Verstappen’s actions constituted a “deliberate breach of integrity and trust.” The governing body alleges that the three-time world champion used a fabricated identity to interfere in internal regulatory procedures, bypassing protocols reserved strictly for authorized FIA officials.
In a formal statement, the FIA said:
“Max Verstappen knowingly submitted restricted material using a false alias—’Franz Hermann’—to influence the outcome of a confidential review process. This is a direct violation of FIA’s Code of Ethics and sporting integrity standards. As such, Mr. Verstappen is banned indefinitely from all Formula 1-related activities, including competition, promotional duties, and team operations.”
Details surrounding the nature of the “secret text” remain tightly controlled, but insiders suggest the document pertained to proposed changes in the 2026 technical regulations. Verstappen allegedly sought to sway key decisions by infiltrating the FIA’s internal review process using the fake identity. The motive, while not officially confirmed, is rumored to involve an attempt to block changes that would have disadvantaged Red Bull’s ongoing powertrain development.
Red Bull Racing has expressed shock at the revelation. In a brief press release, the team stated:
“We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the FIA’s decision and Max Verstappen’s alleged involvement in the matter. Until all facts are verified, we will refrain from further comment. Our focus remains on maintaining transparency and upholding the standards of the sport.”
The use of the alias “Franz Hermann” has drawn both ridicule and curiosity online, with many speculating about how the deception went undetected within the FIA’s typically secure systems. Cybersecurity experts have also been brought in to assess whether the breach points to a wider vulnerability in FIA protocol.
The Formula 1 community has responded with a mixture of disbelief and concern. Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff remarked:
“If true, this is deeply disappointing. Formula 1 relies on integrity at every level—driver, team, and governance. No one is above the system.”
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, one of Verstappen’s closest rivals, said in a post-race interview:
“It’s a shocking turn of events. Max is one of the most talented drivers on the grid. I just hope the full story comes to light.”
Social media has exploded with reactions. Hashtags like #FranzHermann, #VerstappenBan, and #FakeNameGate are trending globally. Some fans are defending Verstappen, accusing the FIA of overreach, while others are calling for greater accountability within the sport.
This dramatic development could have a profound impact on the 2025 F1 season. Verstappen was leading the championship, and his sudden removal leaves Red Bull’s future—and the title fight—in turmoil. The FIA has not specified whether Verstappen will be eligible to appeal the decision, or if the ban is permanent.
This is not the first time Formula 1 has dealt with controversy, but few incidents have involved such a high-profile driver engaging in deceptive conduct. With Verstappen’s career now in limbo, and the full extent of his actions still unclear, the motorsport world awaits further statements from both the FIA and Red Bull Racing.
As the investigation continues, fans and analysts alike are left to wonder: how did one of the most dominant drivers of his generation end up banned under the name “Franz Hermann”
