Tom Brady responds to Indy 500 crowd's booing with a wry smile

During the 2025 Indianapolis 500 pre-race ceremony, seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady was introduced to the crowd, only to be met with a chorus of boos from many in attendance.

Dressed in a racing suit emblazoned with his name and the iconic No. 12, Brady waved and smiled, seemingly unbothered by the reaction.

Despite his composed demeanor, the crowd's response highlighted the lingering animosity some Indianapolis Colts fans harbor due to Brady's storied history with their team.

A legacy of rivalry

Brady's tenure with the New England Patriots was marked by numerous encounters with the Colts, particularly during the peak of the Peyton Manning era.

The Patriots dominated the rivalry, holding a 16-4 record against Indianapolis, which included several playoff victories. One of the most notable moments was the 2014 AFC Championship game, where the Patriots defeated the Colts 45-7, a game that would later become infamous due to the "Deflategate" scandal.

This controversy further fueled resentment among Colts fans, many of whom still the Patriots' dominance during that period.

Despite the boos, Brady maintained his composure, offering a thumbs-up and engaging with the crowd. His reaction seemed to acknowledge the deep-seated rivalry while demonstrating his ability to remain unaffected by the negative reception.

This incident serves as a reminder of the intense emotions that sports rivalries can evoke, even years after the players have moved on to different ventures.

In conclusion, while Tom Brady's appearance at the Indy 500 was met with a less-than-warm reception from some Colts fans, his poised response underscored his resilience and understanding of the enduring nature of sports rivalries.

As he continues to transition into his post-playing career, moments like these highlight the lasting impact of his legacy on the NFL landscape.