“F1 Icon Threatens to Walk Away Amid Online Abuse”…..read more
A four-time Formula 1 world champion has threatened to quit the sport due to ongoing abuse he’s receiving on social media. This comes just days before the start of the 2025 F1 season, with the Australian Grand Prix marking the opening race. Max Verstappen, the reigning drivers’ champion, and McLaren, the defending constructors’ champions, will both begin their title defences at the event.
The legendary driver, known for his fierce rivalry with the late Ayrton Senna, has publicly expressed his disappointment and sadness over the hateful messages he continues to receive online. Despite their battles being part of one of the most iconic rivalries in F1 history, the former McLaren driver has revealed how the abuse has had a lasting impact. This rivalry, which spanned the late 1980s, was one of the most intense in motorsport, with Prost and Senna often clashing on and off the track, leaving a lasting mark on the sport’s history.
Even decades after their intense battles, Prost still faces online vitriol from fans, particularly related to the ongoing comparison between him and Senna. His comments highlight how the rivalry, though a defining part of F1 history, has continued to haunt him, as some fans seem unable to move past their past differences.
The backlash has led to increased concern within the F1 community, with the sport’s governing body, the FIA, voicing their support for Prost. The FIA’s president has condemned the abuse directed at Prost, emphasizing the need for respect and recognition of the sport’s legends, regardless of past rivalries. As F1 continues to grow in popularity and global reach, the issue of online abuse has come to the forefront, with prominent figures in the sport urging for a more respectful and supportive environment.
The tension between Prost and Senna remains a significant chapter in Formula 1’s history, but Prost’s recent comments underscore how this legacy still carries emotional weight for him. His threat to quit the sport reflects the damaging impact that toxic online behavior continues to have on even the greatest drivers.
