FACT CHECK: Is OnlyFans going to partner with Alpine F1 team?

Recent rumours suggesting that OnlyFans, a platform widely known for its adult content, will replace BWT as the title sponsor of the Alpine F1 team have been circulating online. This unexpected claim generated significant buzz, particularly among Formula 1 enthusiasts. However, a closer inspection reveals that these reports are nothing more than a baseless hoax.

The rumour originated from a post on X (formerly Twitter) by a user named Matthew J. Thompson, who claims to be a freelance Formula 1 journalist. The post quickly gained traction, spreading across international media outlets. Yet, despite the widespread attention, there are glaring red flags that suggest the story is not credible.

Firstly, there is no verified information or official announcement from either Alpine or OnlyFans to substantiate this claim. More crucially, the identity of the so-called journalist Matthew J. Thompson is highly suspicious. A basic search reveals no legitimate articles or publications attributed to this individual.

Furthermore, his X account, which boasts over 17,000 followers, displays behaviour that is inconsistent with that of a professional journalist. The account is rife with unsubstantiated rumours, fanatical support for Fernando Alonso, and politically charged content that includes overt expressions of support for Donald Trump.

Why does this seem like a fake story?

Digging deeper into the X account, users on Reddit have pointed out that some of the images posted by Thompson appear to be fake. Additionally, despite the significant number of followers, the account is not followed by any Formula 1 team, which is highly unusual for someone purportedly working within the sport's journalism field.

Given these facts, it is clear that the rumour about OnlyFans partnering with Alpine is a hoax. BWT, an Austrian water treatment systems company, remains the title sponsor of Alpine and has been a familiar presence in Formula 1 for years. The idea that a company like OnlyFans would step into such a prominent role in a sport like Formula 1, which carefully manages its public image, seems far-fetched.

In conclusion, the story about OnlyFans becoming the new title sponsor of Alpine is nothing more than a fabrication, born from a fake social media account designed to spread misinformation. Fans of Formula 1 should be cautious about the sources they rely on for news, particularly when sensational claims emerge without credible backing.