Max Verstappen has warned that he may boycott future Formula 1 events in the United Kingdom after being booed at the recent F1 season launch in London. The Red Bull driver’s father, Jos Verstappen, described the crowd’s behavior as shameful and suggested that Max would avoid attending similar events in England in the future.
Verstappen faces hostile reception in London
The F1 2025 season launch took place at the O2 Arena, where all 20 drivers were present to unveil their new liveries and participate in media activities. When Verstappen appeared on screen, sections of the crowd responded with boos. Red Bull had already decided that Verstappen and his teammate Liam Lawson would not address the audience directly, aiming to avoid scripted or forced statements after a long day of media engagements.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner also received a negative reception from the crowd. However, he took it in stride, acknowledging the reaction and saying, “Well, it is fantastic to be here in the O2 anyway!”
FIA condemns tribalist booing
In response to the incident, the FIA issued a statement denouncing what it described as tribalist fan behavior. The governing body emphasized the importance of respect in sports, particularly for a three-time World Champion like Verstappen and a leading team principal like Horner.
“The FIA believes that all competitors and team personnel should be treated with respect, regardless of nationality or team affiliation,” the statement read.
Future F1 season launch events may move
Following the controversy, discussions have reportedly begun about relocating future F1 season launch events away from the UK. Saudi Arabia has already expressed interest in hosting the season opener, which could mark a significant shift in how Formula 1 presents itself to fans.
Verstappen’s potential boycott would add to growing concerns about the sport’s atmosphere, particularly with increasing polarization among fanbases. Whether Formula 1 will adjust its approach in response remains to be seen, but Verstappen’s stance signals ongoing tension in the sport’s most passionate markets.
