The popularity of Formula 1 has exploded in recent years, attracting a new wave of fans thanks to the Netflix era and increasingly intense rivalries.
But this surge has also led to a worrying trend: discussions about F1 seem to be becoming increasingly toxic. A study conducted by Buzz Radar reveals a marked increase in negative exchanges within the fan community, with a trend that shows no signs of slowing down—not to mention the outbursts in the grandstands at circuits.
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An increasingly tense climate in Formula 1
While social media has allowed fans to get closer to the sport and share their passion, it has also become the stage for heated debates and even personal attacks. Buzz Radar’s study, which analyzed 100 million messages posted by 247,000 accounts between 2016 and 2024, shows that the share of negative comments has more than doubled, rising from 8% in 2016 to 20% today. Even the drivers themselves are not spared by this wave of negativity. Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz, as well as former paddock figures like Nicholas Latifi and Michael Masi, have been hit by vicious campaigns, including death threats following the controversial 2021 season finale. This phenomenon is increasingly concerning the sport’s authorities, to the point that the FIA is considering harsher penalties for harmful behavior.
Topics that divide the F1 fans
Rivalries on the track are not the only sources of tension. FIA regulations, sometimes seen as inconsistent, are a major cause of frustration, as are the decisions made by race stewards that can change the outcome of a Grand Prix. The controversial finish of the 2021 championship is a perfect example—it continues to fuel heated discussions more than three years later. The evolution of the sport, with the arrival of hybrid cars, format changes like Saturday sprints, and the issue of the budget cap, also crystallizes these tensions. For some longtime fans, these changes distort the sport, while for others, they are necessary to ensure a sustainable future for F1.
A trend that shows no signs of slowing down
The algorithms used in the study predict another increase in toxicity within the next 18 months, which could pose a real problem for Formula 1 and its image. While passionate debates have always been part of the sport, the rise of online hate could discourage new fans from engaging and even affect the drivers and teams.
Incidents even on the circuits
Beyond social media, it’s the stands that have been directly affected. Remember the outbursts in Mexico that led to a general brawl, or that smoke grenade that was ignited and then thrown near the track? Not to mention the incident at Silverstone, where a group of people interfered on the circuit while F1 cars were preparing in their warm-up area. It’s unfortunate, but Formula 1 has a real problem with behavior, much like many other sports. If any evidence were needed, it shows that it is, above all, a matter of passion—both positive and negative.
This article explores the rise of toxicity within the F1 community, highlighting the growing tensions on social media and the topics that divide fans. Buzz Radar’s study suggests that the phenomenon is worsening, raising questions about the impact of this negativity on the sport and its stakeholders.
Images: © Scuderia Ferrari / © Williams Racing
