In an unprecedented move that has ignited controversy across the motorsport world, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has issued disciplinary action against Red Bull Racing, following a now-deleted social media post from one of the team’s affiliated accounts that criticized Pride Month celebrations. The post, which read: “WOKE is not worth celebrating”, was met with immediate backlash, prompting questions about the team’s stance on inclusion and diversity.

The FIA, which in recent years has made progressive strides to support equality initiatives, including campaigns for LGBTQ+ inclusion, moved swiftly in response. Within 48 hours, the governing body released a statement condemning the message and imposing sanctions on Red Bull.

 The FIA’s Response: An Unexpected Punishment

On June 11, the FIA issued an official notice announcing the punishment:

“In light of recent public communication by a team-affiliated platform that contradicts the FIA’s values of inclusion, equality, and respect, a formal reprimand and financial penalty have been issued to Red Bull Racing.”

While the exact amount of the fine was not disclosed, insiders claim it could be as high as €250,000, to be directed toward FIA-funded diversity and education programs within motorsport. In addition, the team has been mandated to participate in a public awareness campaign in support of LGBTQ+ inclusivity at upcoming races.

 Red Bull’s Controversial Post: What Was Said?

The now-deleted post, allegedly shared by an admin from Red Bull’s social media management team, featured a graphic with the caption:

“June isn’t about pushing agendas. WOKE is not worth celebrating.”

Although it was not posted on Red Bull’s official F1 account, the message came from an officially verified partner page tied to the team’s digital ecosystem, giving it significant visibility.

Within minutes, the post went viral, sparking outrage among fans, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, and even other F1 teams.

 Horner and Verstappen Respond

Team Principal Christian Horner addressed the situation at a press conference ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix:

“Red Bull Racing does not endorse the comments made on that account. We support diversity, equality, and respect in all forms. However, we also believe that forcing teams into political posturing is not the solution.”

When asked whether he supported the FIA’s disciplinary action, Horner responded with frustration:

“We understand the need for standards, but punishing a team over a third-party admin’s misjudged post feels disproportionate. We’re racers, not activists.”

Reigning world champion Max Verstappen was even more direct, saying:

“This is racing. I don’t get involved in social politics. People should be free to speak, even if we disagree. Silencing others is not inclusion — it’s control.”

His comments were met with mixed reactions online, with some praising his honesty and others accusing him of ignoring the responsibilities of his platform.

The Broader Debate: Pride in F1

Formula 1 has, in recent years, actively participated in Pride Month and broader diversity efforts, including the #WeRaceAsOne campaign launched in 2020. Many teams — such as Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin — have publicly embraced LGBTQ+ inclusion, changing their liveries during Pride Month and supporting internal DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs.

The incident has now triggered a deeper discussion about the role of teams in social advocacy, with some arguing that sports and politics should remain separate, while others insist that neutrality is no longer acceptable when equality is at stake.

 Fans and Drivers Divided

Online reaction has been sharply polarized. While some fans supported Red Bull’s pushback against what they perceive as “performative activism,” others accused the team of enabling discrimination.

Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, posted a cryptic message on Instagram that many believe was directed at Red Bull:

“If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.”

Meanwhile, McLaren driver Lando Norris posted a rainbow emoji on his profile, signaling quiet support for Pride Month amid the controversy.

 What’s Next?

The FIA confirmed that further violations of its inclusivity policy — whether from teams or individuals — could result in harsher penalties, including suspensions, grid penalties, or sponsor sanctions.

Red Bull Racing is now walking a tightrope: on one side, maintaining its dominant racing performance; on the other, managing the optics of a brand now associated, however unintentionally, with anti-inclusion messaging.

 Final Thoughts

This saga raises vital questions: Where should the line be drawn between free speech and responsible representation in sports? Should racing teams be penalized for the actions of affiliated media accounts? And is it possible for F1 to remain a truly global and inclusive sport without stepping into cultural and political controversy?

One thing is certain: the world is watching, and Formula 1 can no longer afford to stay silent — not when the message is about respect, dignity, and equality for all.

As for Red Bull, the race for public redemption may now be just as important as the race for the championship.