Tom Brady’s appearance at the 2025 Indianapolis 500 was met with a chorus of boos from the crowd during the pre-race ceremony.
The 47-year-old former NFL quarterback, known for his seven Super Bowl victories, was likely targeted by Indianapolis Colts fans due to his history with their team. Brady’s New England Patriots eliminated the Colts from playoff contention multiple times, and he was at the center of the 2014 “Deflategate” controversy, which further fueled animosity.
Despite the chilly reception, Brady remained composed, smiling and waving to the crowd. Since retiring from the NFL in 2023, he has transitioned into a broadcasting role with Fox Sports and holds a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders. The NFL has imposed restrictions to prevent conflicts of interest, barring him from accessing other teams’ facilities or practices.
The backlash from Colts fans highlights the deep-rooted rivalry between the team and Brady’s former Patriots. While Brady’s involvement in the Indy 500 brought star power to the event, it also stirred up old tensions among fans. His ability to handle the situation with grace may have helped to ease some of the animosity, but the incident serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of sports rivalries.