10 MINUTES AGO: Max Verstappen has been fined $10 million and banned from competing in 2 races after making insulting comments about Franco Colapinto on live television.

In a stunning and unprecedented development shaking the world of Formula 1, reigning world champion Max Verstappen has been handed a $10 million fine and two-race suspension following insulting and inappropriate remarks made about rising Argentine driver Franco Colapinto during a live post-race broadcast. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, leading to swift disciplinary action by both the FIA and Red Bull Racing.

The Controversial Broadcast

The controversy unfolded just minutes after the Spanish Grand Prix when Verstappen, speaking with a major European sports network, made derogatory comments about Colapinto’s background, nationality, and perceived “lack of talent.” The interview was being broadcast live across multiple platforms, including international streaming services and local television stations in Argentina.

While Verstappen’s full comments have been removed from the network’s archives, leaked transcripts and fan-recorded footage reveal a string of dismissive, personal attacks that quickly sparked backlash.

“He’s nothing but a media experiment,” Verstappen allegedly said. “They’re trying to make someone famous just because he’s from a country that never mattered in F1. He doesn’t belong on this grid.”

FIA Responds Swiftly

Within hours of the broadcast, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) launched an immediate investigation. The governing body concluded that Verstappen’s comments violated several key clauses in the FIA Code of Ethics, including:

Article 1.2: Respect and Dignity
Article 2.3: Discrimination and Harassment
Article 3.1: Public Conduct Detrimental to the Sport

On Monday morning, the FIA issued a formal statement:

“Max Verstappen’s comments regarding Franco Colapinto are in direct violation of the values of equality, respect, and integrity that underpin motorsport. His behavior was unsportsmanlike and damaging to the image of Formula 1. The FIA has imposed a fine of $10 million and a suspension from the next two official Grand Prix races.”

Red Bull Racing Reacts

Red Bull Racing has expressed “deep disappointment” in their driver’s behavior. While not cutting ties with Verstappen, Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged the gravity of the situation.

“Max’s comments do not reflect the values of Red Bull Racing,” Horner stated. “We believe in diversity and merit in motorsport. We will work closely with Max to ensure he takes full accountability.”

According to insiders, Verstappen will be required to participate in mandatory sensitivity training and conduct a public apology tour, including a visit to Argentina to meet with young racers and community leaders.

Franco Colapinto Breaks His Silence

Franco Colapinto, the 21-year-old Argentine sensation recently promoted to a reserve role at Williams Racing, took the high road in his first public response.

“I’m focused on racing and representing my country with pride,” he said. “What others say in anger or arrogance doesn’t define my journey. I thank everyone for the overwhelming support, especially from Argentina and the Latin American motorsport community.”

Colapinto’s poised response has earned praise from drivers and fans alike, with #WeStandWithFranco trending globally within hours.

Reactions From Across the Grid

Fellow drivers, including Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, quickly condemned Verstappen’s remarks.

“There’s no place in F1 for hate or exclusion,” Hamilton said. “We all have a responsibility to lift others up, especially those breaking new ground like Franco.”

“Competition should never override decency,” added Leclerc. “Franco deserves respect.”

Meanwhile, the Argentine government’s Sports Ministry has formally requested an apology from Verstappen and the FIA, citing “verbal aggression” and “racial insensitivity.”

Verstappen Issues Apology—But Is It Enough?

Late Tuesday evening, Verstappen released a written statement:

“I want to apologize to Franco Colapinto, his fans, and the entire F1 community. My comments were unacceptable and made in the heat of the moment. I take full responsibility and will work to better reflect the values of respect and sportsmanship moving forward.”

However, many fans and pundits remain skeptical, questioning the sincerity of the apology and whether it would have been issued without official punishment.

What This Means for the 2025 Season

Verstappen’s suspension means he will miss the Canadian Grand Prix and the Austrian Grand Prix, two circuits where he historically performs well. Red Bull will likely bring in reserve driver Liam Lawson or possibly even former driver Daniel Ricciardo as a stand-in.

The incident may also have long-term effects on Verstappen’s public image and sponsorships. Several major partners, including Puma and TAG Heuer, are reportedly “reviewing their agreements.”

Final Thoughts

This scandal marks one of the most serious disciplinary actions taken against a reigning F1 champion in modern history. As the dust settles, it’s clear that Formula 1 is sending a powerful message: talent does not excuse misconduct.

While Verstappen’s racing legacy is undeniable, this moment serves as a critical test of character—not only for him, but for the sport as a whole. Whether he can regain the trust of fans and colleagues remains to be seen, but for now, one thing is certain:

The Formula 1 world is watching—closely.