F1-75: boos not only for FIA, but also aimed at Max Verstappen and Christian Horner. Boos at F1-75 event for Max Verstappen and Christian Horner.

Boos in London

The car launch event at London’s O2 Arena was meant to be a celebration and spectacle, and while it largely was, there were also moments of protest. Chief among them were the boos directed at the FIA for its new regulations on driver “conduct,” which severely penalize swearing. The International Federation was not warmly received by the crowd, nor were Red Bull and reigning world champion Max Verstappen.

Boos for Horner

When Max Verstappen appeared on the screens—even before the car was unveiled—the four-time world champion was immediately booed by the audience. The same happened later when the RB21 was presented. However, the loudest jeers were reserved for Team Principal Christian Horner.

The reason for the boos against the Briton remains unclear, but despite the awkward moment, he managed to remain composed while introducing the new car. While the crowd’s reaction to Max Verstappen is likely tied to his rivalry with British drivers Lando Norris and George Russell, the main reason for the hostility toward Horner could stem from last year’s controversy, when the 51-year-old was caught up in an alleged sexual scandal. At the time, Horner was accused of sending explicit images to an employee, putting his future at Red Bull in serious doubt.

Christian Horner brutally BOOED at F1 launch event. 😮 pic.twitter.com/8cV0OkJawv

— Sun Sport (@SunSport) February 18, 2025