Verstappen might skip the upcoming F1 launch event.

      Max Verstappen may choose to skip next year's Formula 1 group season launch if it takes place again in the UK. Recently, a large portion of the 15,000 fans at the O2 arena booed both Verstappen and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. The FIA, which also faced booing during the presentation, has responded by calling for an end to the "tribalist" mentality that has emerged as the sport has gained popularity. A spokesperson stated, "What underlines sport at all levels is a culture of respect. It was disappointing to hear the crowd's tribal reaction to quadruple world champion Verstappen and Horner. We stand with all competitors, officials, volunteers, and fans in unity against this rising issue. Max and Christian have both made significant contributions to the sport we cherish," the FIA representative added.

      According to Verstappen's well-known father, Jos, he found the booing to be "shameful," although he stated the presentation itself was generally "reasonable." "Look, you’re there for Formula 1, to promote the sport, and then you get booed by the crowd. I don’t think that’s acceptable," he told RaceXpress. "I get it, as Max is the one who ignites those English fans and tells them the truth, but it’s still not acceptable. Max told me, 'If this is in England next year, they will definitely not see me.' I completely agree with him."

      Jos also specifically supported Horner following the booing but expressed concerns that Red Bull might be declining. "If they can’t resolve this situation, it raises worries about the years to come," Verstappen senior remarked. "We remain optimistic, but we want to see progress." With Adrian Newey set to join Aston Martin, Jos Verstappen continued, "Can Red Bull still develop a competitive car with these new people? Because that will carry over to 2026, when everything changes. It’s just a matter of waiting and hoping that Red Bull has built a solid car."