Horner HUMILIATED at London Launch as Hamilton Delivers Incredible Snub
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner endured an awkward and humiliating moment at a high-profile London launch event, as seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton delivered a cold and calculated snub that left the paddock buzzing with speculation.
The incident took place at Red Bull’s glitzy unveiling of their new RB20 challenger, an event designed to showcase their 2024 title defense ambitions. The launch, held at a prestigious London venue, attracted major figures from Formula 1, sponsors, and media representatives. However, the night took a dramatic turn when Hamilton, who was also present in the city for an unrelated Mercedes engagement, conspicuously avoided any interaction with Horner, sending a clear message amid ongoing tensions.
A Tense Atmosphere
The event was supposed to be a celebration of Red Bull’s recent dominance, with reigning champion Max Verstappen and teammate Sergio Pérez making appearances to discuss their hopes for the upcoming season. However, Horner’s presence has been overshadowed in recent weeks by controversy, with internal disputes and rumors of misconduct within the Red Bull camp making headlines.
Hamilton, known for his measured responses and strategic moves both on and off the track, made his stance clear by refusing to acknowledge Horner’s presence. The Mercedes star, who will make a sensational move to Ferrari in 2025, ensured that the snub was noticed by keeping his distance throughout the evening.
According to witnesses, there were moments when the two could have crossed paths, yet Hamilton deliberately avoided eye contact and any pleasantries. This marked a stark contrast to previous years, when both had shared mutual—albeit competitive—respect.
Why Did Hamilton Snub Horner?
While Hamilton has yet to publicly comment on the incident, the reasoning behind his actions could be linked to multiple factors.
1. Red Bull’s Ongoing Controversy – Horner is currently facing intense scrutiny following an internal investigation at Red Bull. While details remain unclear, tensions within the team have led to speculation about his leadership. Hamilton, who has always been vocal about integrity in the sport, may have chosen to distance himself from any association with the controversy.
2. On-Track Rivalry – Red Bull and Mercedes have been bitter rivals for years, particularly after the dramatic and controversial conclusion of the 2021 season, when Verstappen edged Hamilton to the title under contentious circumstances in Abu Dhabi. Despite time passing, the wounds from that rivalry have not fully healed.
3. The Ferrari Factor – With Hamilton now confirmed to be joining Ferrari in 2025, his alliances in the paddock are shifting. His Mercedes tenure is coming to an end, and he may see less need to engage with Red Bull figures who have often been adversaries.
Horner’s Response
While Horner maintained his professionalism on stage during the event, those close to the team suggested he was noticeably unsettled by Hamilton’s actions. Sources claim he had hoped to exchange pleasantries with the British driver in an attempt to show unity in the sport. However, Hamilton’s clear snub left him in an uncomfortable position.
A Red Bull spokesperson attempted to downplay the situation, stating:
“Christian is fully focused on leading the team into another successful season. Any speculation about tensions between him and other figures in the paddock is simply unnecessary noise.”
However, social media quickly picked up on the moment, with fans and pundits debating whether Hamilton’s snub was intentional or merely circumstantial.
What Next?
With the 2024 season fast approaching, this latest development only adds to the drama surrounding the sport. The rivalry between Red Bull and Mercedes remains fierce, and Horner’s off-track struggles could impact Red Bull’s campaign. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s calculated move may set the tone for a feisty final year with Mercedes before he embarks on his Ferrari adventure.
As the countdown to the first race in Bahrain continues, one thing is clear—Formula 1’s political battles are as intense as the racing itself.
