Max Verstappen’s father lashes out at the English crowd: “Never again in London if the event stays there”
The F1 75 Live at London’s O2 Arena, the event that unveiled the liveries for the 2025 season, delivered spectacle, emotions, and colors. However, an unpleasant episode marred Red Bull’s presentation, with the arena crowd clearly siding with Hamilton.
Deafening boos for Horner, Verstappen, and Lawson
When it was time for the Milton Keynes team, Team Principal Christian Horner took the stage to introduce the 2025 drivers: Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson. Instead of being celebrated, the moment was overshadowed by a wave of boos from the English audience in attendance.
The scene echoed similar incidents in recent years, such as the hostility towards the three-time world champion during podium ceremonies at the Austin and Mexico Grands Prix, where local fans openly expressed their dislike for the Dutchman, particularly in defense of Sergio Perez.
Jos Verstappen’s reaction: “Unacceptable”
The episode did not go unnoticed, and Jos Verstappen, Max’s father, harshly responded in an interview with RacExpress, expressing his indignation over what happened in London.
“I found what happened to Red Bull embarrassing. Booing Horner and Max at an event that is supposed to celebrate the sport is unacceptable,” declared the former Dutch driver.
Jos Verstappen then issued a clear warning regarding his son’s future participation in similar events: “I understand the reason for these boos: Max is one of the few who always speaks his mind and ignites passions, especially in England. But if this is the kind of spectacle, Max will not attend anymore. He does not want to be booed in that manner in front of 25,000 people, and if the event is held again in London or England next year, he will certainly not participate.”
It remains to be seen whether such incidents will influence drivers’ participation in promotional events or if Formula 1 will take action to curb such behavior. For now, Jos Verstappen’s reaction leaves little doubt: Red Bull did not appreciate the reception it received, and Max’s future at similar events may be in question.
Photo: Oracle Red Bull Racing
