The shockwaves from Red Bull Racing’s decision to part ways with Sergio Perez for the 2025 Formula 1 season are reverberating far beyond the track. In a dramatic display of loyalty, thousands of Perez’s fans have unfollowed Red Bull’s official Instagram account in protest, sending a clear message about their disappointment.
200,000 Followers Lost Overnight
The fallout began immediately after Red Bull’s announcement, with data revealing the team lost nearly 200,000 Instagram followers within hours. The exodus didn’t stop there, as over 20,000 more fans opted to unfollow the following day. Most of the outrage appears to stem from Perez’s passionate Latin American fanbase, who feel the Mexican driver was unfairly sidelined, leaving him without a seat for the upcoming season.
The move is a significant indicator of the emotional connection Perez has cultivated with fans since joining Red Bull. Known for his grit and racecraft, Perez has become a hero to many in the sport, and his abrupt departure has clearly left his supporters incensed.
Perez’s New Role with Red Bull
Despite the backlash, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has clarified that Perez isn’t severing ties with the team completely. The Mexican driver will take on a new role performing show runs for Red Bull in 2025, much like Daniel Ricciardo’s similar duties early in 2023.
“He is going to still be involved with the team,” Horner shared. “He will be doing a couple of show runs with us next year.”
This role, however, is unlikely to placate fans who see it as a significant step down from competing on the grid.
Perez’s Future in Formula 1
For Perez, the path back to a competitive seat in F1 seems uncertain. With an influx of rookie talent and limited openings on the grid, the 34-year-old driver may find it challenging to secure a spot in 2026. Still, his experience and proven ability to perform under pressure could make him an attractive option for midfield teams looking to boost their lineups.
A Social Media Protest That Speaks Volumes
The mass unfollowing serves as a striking reminder of how modern fanbases wield social media as a platform for protest. The backlash highlights the emotional stakes involved in team decisions and the powerful loyalty drivers like Perez inspire among their supporters.
As Red Bull navigates the fallout, the move underscores the importance of balancing strategic decisions with the sentiments of a global fanbase. The question remains whether the team’s 2025 lineup, led by Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson, will manage to regain the goodwill of Perez’s ardent followers.
