The International Automobile Federation commented on the boos received by the Red Bull team during a Formula 1 event in London, as part of the launch of the 2025 season. In a statement, the FIA expressed its disagreement with the British public's reaction towards the team boss, Christian Horner, and world champion Max Verstappen during the F1 launch in London.
"But what underpins the sport at all levels is a culture of respect," the FIA pointed out, highlighting the importance of maintaining a respectful atmosphere in all areas of the sport. The federation recognized the contributions of Verstappen and Horner to motorsport and called for not losing sight of these aspects during the upcoming season.
The FIA emphasized its fight against abuse in sport, both on circuits and on social media, through its campaign "United Against Online Abuse." The federation committed to leading a coalition to address this issue and protect the integrity of the sport.
The event at the O2 Arena in London showcased the innovations of the 2025 season, including new race cars. However, Verstappen and Horner were greeted with boos from some attendees, reflecting the tense relationship they have maintained with British fans since the previous season, marked by intense rivalry with Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes.
Although the event was organized by Formula 1 and not directly by the FIA, the federation lamented what happened and called on the sports community to consider the impact of their actions, both online and offline. The FIA reminded that the great rivalries in the history of motorsport have contributed to making the sport an exciting experience for fans, urging to promote respect at all times.
