The FIA reacts after the boos against Max Verstappen and Christian Horner in London
Tense atmosphere in London during the official presentation of the 2025 F1 season, as the crowd largely booed Max Verstappen and Christian Horner. The FIA, shocked by these reactions, insisted on setting the record straight.
On Tuesday, F1 held its very first collective season launch event with all 20 drivers gathered under the same roof. A unique moment where teams unveiled their new liveries and fans could see their favorite drivers.
But alas, not everything went as planned. When Max Verstappen and Christian Horner took the stage, a shower of boos rained down on them. A frosty reception that only exacerbated the already palpable tensions surrounding Red Bull.
To top it all off, Max Verstappen and his teammate Liam Lawson were the only drivers not to address the public. This decision to remain silent was taken in advance by Red Bull to avoid unnecessary speeches after a long day of interviews. This only served to further fuel the frustration of the fans.
The FIA reacts: A culture of respect above all else
Faced with this chaotic scene, the FIA did not delay in reacting by issuing a statement. The sport’s governing body expressed its disappointment with the public’s reaction and emphasized the fundamental values of motorsport.
« The great rivalries that have marked the history of motorsport have helped make it an exciting experience for fans. But what underpins the sport at all levels is a culture of respect. » The FIA emphasizes the importance of acknowledging everyone’s contributions, including those of Max Verstappen and Christian Horner: « Max and Christian have both greatly contributed to the sport we love. Over the upcoming season, we should not lose sight of this. »
To go further, the organization reiterates its commitment to combating abuse, particularly online, with the campaign « United Against Online Abuse ».” A call to responsibility for fans and sports stakeholders.
For his part, Jos Verstappen did not hide his indignation. The former driver and father of Max criticized the attitude of the London public in an interview for RaceXpress: “I found what happened with Red Bull Racing to be disgraceful. The fact that Christian Horner was booed like that and that Max was too.” He goes even further by criticizing the hypocrisy of the situation: “You do it for Formula 1, you are there to promote the sport, and you get booed by the public. I don’t think that’s acceptable.”
Jos Verstappen is not fooled, he knows that his son is far from being the most popular driver with the British public: « I understand, because Max is the only one who ignites these English and says exactly how it is. But I don’t think it’s acceptable. It’s really disappointing what happened », he says.
Will the tensions around Red Bull explode?
Between the controversies surrounding Christian Horner and the rumors of internal tensions at Red Bull, this season’s start promises to be eventful. And with an audience that seems ready for a showdown, the pressure is unlikely to ease anytime soon.
To be continued…
