The O2 Arena in London played host to the F175 launch event, where Red Bull figures Max Verstappen and Christian Horner received a frosty welcome from sections of the predominantly British crowd. While Verstappen’s on-screen appearance was met with a mix of cheers and jeers, Horner faced a more hostile reception when he took the stage.
Given Verstappen’s recent dominance in Formula 1—often at the expense of British drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris—the reaction from fans was not entirely unexpected. Additionally, Verstappen’s vocal criticism of British media and the FIA may have further fueled the discontent.
Horner Faces Unwavering Hostility
When Christian Horner appeared on stage, the reception from the crowd was overwhelmingly negative, as reported by London Insider.
Despite being one of the most successful British team principals in modern F1 history, the audience’s allegiances were clear. Horner, initially taken aback, quickly composed himself and carried on with his presentation.
The contrast in responses between Red Bull personnel and British drivers like Norris, Hamilton, George Russell, and rookie Oliver Bearman was stark. The partisan crowd erupted in support for their homegrown talents while reserving their disdain for the Austrian outfit’s key figures.
Jos Verstappen Slams “Shameful” Behavior
Jos Verstappen, father of Max, was left unimpressed by the treatment of Red Bull at the event. Despite his often strained relationship with Horner, he was clear in his disapproval of the crowd’s actions.
“In itself, I thought it was a reasonable set-up, only I thought it was shameful what happened there with Red Bull Racing,” Jos Verstappen said.
“That Christian Horner was booed like that, and Max was booed too.
“Look, then you do it for Formula 1, you are there to promote the sport and then you are booed by the public. I don’t think that’s acceptable. I get it, because Max is the only one who fires up those Englishmen and says exactly how things are.
“But I don’t think this is acceptable, it’s really a disappointment what happened there.”
FIA Also Targeted by Crowd
The FIA was not spared from the crowd’s discontent, facing jeers alongside Red Bull’s representatives. Sources suggested to PlanetF1.com that such reactions stem from the FIA’s regulatory role, which often places them in an unfavorable light. However, the governing body remains particularly concerned about the growing tribalism in Formula 1, especially as they continue their fight against online abuse through initiatives like United Against Online Abuse.
With the sport’s fanbase increasingly divided along team and driver loyalties, the London event served as a stark reminder of the intensifying emotions surrounding Formula 1’s biggest stars.