FIA: Booing Verstappen, Horner at F1 75 disappointing and tribalist

It was otherwise a spectacular night to celebrate Formula 1's 75th season (as an FIA-governed sport) as well as the ten teams' livery presentation for the 2025 season ahead.

Notably, on the rare occasions the organization was mentioned during the show, they too were subject to boos. But the brunt of the toxic behaviour, downright bad sportsmanship and lack of respect was directed at Verstappen and Horner.

An FIA spokesperson commented: “Great rivalries throughout the history of motorsport have contributed to making it such an exciting experience for fans. But what underpins sport at all levels is a culture of respect.

"As such, it was disappointing to hear the crowd's tribalist reaction to FIA Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen and his Red Bull Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner, at the F1 launch in London.

“Max and Christian have both contributed greatly to the sport we love. In the season ahead we should not lose sight of that. As part of the FIA’s commitment to protect the integrity of the sport, we are leading a coalition tackling online abuse in sport under the banner of our United Against Online Abuse campaign.

"We stand with all of our competitors, officials, volunteers, and fans to unite against this growing threat. We urge the sporting community to consider the impact of their actions both online and offline," added the FIA spokesperson.

The incident, which saw four-time Formula 1 World Champion, Verstappen and Horner clearly uncomfortable by boos and jeers from sections of the crowd, has sparked debate over the increasing polarisation within the F1 fanbase.

Verstappen's father Jos told Dutch media that the booing was unacceptable and his son had no appetite to attend more such events in England; according to a Reuters report.

With the FIA's World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) meeting scheduled for Wednesday, it is expected that the issue will be raised in discussions, to reinforce the governing body’s stance on combating abuse on all levels.

For further context on the event, see our related report: Body language expert on awkward moments at F1 75 LIVE – Horner, Verstappen, Hamilton, Russell.