After criticism and boos: does Verstappen have to attend the F1 event in London again?

His presence was mandatory, but Max Verstappen would have preferred to skip the event at London’s O2 Arena—where the ten teams unveiled their 2025 liveries. If he had the choice, he surely would have. In hindsight, that’s understandable, as his team, Red Bull Racing, didn’t exactly receive a warm welcome from the crowd. Team principal Christian Horner, in particular, was booed by the British fans.

The major event in the O2 was supposed to be a one-off, but after its success - disregarding Red Bull's reception - suggestions were immediately made to turn it into an annual occasion. GPblog has understood that Formula One Management (FOM) and the eleven teams are still discussing this.

It's also possible that a different type of joint presentation takes place. FOM and the teams are discussing all kinds of ideas, but no final decision has been made.

However, it seems difficult to visit the O2 in London again for a big event. Finding a time for it is challenging, as the first series of (closed) test days is scheduled to take place in Barcelona at the end of January.

After the initial phase of private testing, the teams are expected to take to the track for two more sessions, this time with media coverage.

The first of the 24 rounds of the season will take place in Australia during the weekend of March 6th to 8th, at the historic Albert Park circuit, which this year has returned to being the season opener after several years during which Bahrain held that role.

Moreover, teams are still busy attracting sponsors and developing their cars relatively early in the season. Such huge event would primarily consume valuable time.