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Ted Cruz boos echo as he presents trophies at U.S. Grand Prix

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 26, 2026, 7:11 AM

Last updated Oct 26, 2026

Ted Cruz boos echo as he presents trophies at U.S. Grand Prix

Summary

Texas Senator Ted Cruz took to the podium at the 2026 United States Grand Prix in Austin to award trophies to the top three drivers: Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Kimi Antonelli. His appearance was met with loud boos from the crowd, continuing even as Antonelli lifted the trophy. Cruz, who has been unpopular in Austin, lost significantly during the 2024 Senate election, which may have contributed to the audience's reaction. Despite not being up for election this cycle, he endorsed Ken Paxton, a Republican Senate candidate, for the upcoming race against James Talarico. Cruz's presence at F1 events reflects a growing trend of politicians attending sporting events.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Cruz appeared at the U.S. GP podium on October 26, 2026.
•Crowd reaction included significant boos directed at Cruz.
•He awarded trophies to Verstappen, Leclerc, and Antonelli.
•Cruz endorsed Ken Paxton for the upcoming Senate race.
•Austin audiences previously voted heavily against Cruz in 2024.

Latest Updates

7:11 AMYahoo Sports — Texas Senator Ted Cruz’s appearance at United States GP podium ceremony leads to loud boos from fans

What they're saying

"
Texas Senator and Chief of the Senate Commerce Committee Ted Cruz appeared on the podium for Formula 1’s United States Grand Prix in Austin. Cruz has been an elected member of the United States Senate from Texas since 2013, but likely did not get the reception he expected when he appeared on the podium to hand out the trophies to the top-three drivers at the 2026 U.
— Yahoo Sports

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