Max Verstappen critiques Formula One’s new regulations
Max Verstappen has launched another scathing attack on Formula One’s new technical regulations, joking that he has abandoned his simulator in favour of Nintendo’s Mario Kart, reports BritPanorama.
Speaking at Thursday’s press conference ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, the four-time world champion delivered a withering assessment of the 2026 cars. He quipped, “I swapped the simulator for my Nintendo Switch. I’m practising with Mario Kart, actually. Finding the mushrooms is going quite well, the blue shells are a bit more difficult.”
While his remarks contained an element of humour, Verstappen’s dissatisfaction is serious. “I wish I had a bit more fun for sure,” he stated, highlighting a competitive environment he describes as “a jungle.” The Dutchman expressed concerns about Red Bull’s prospects in Shanghai, indicating that a top-five finish seems unlikely due to the dominance of Mercedes and Ferrari.
His criticism is founded on safety worries associated with the hybrid power units that currently deliver energy through a near-equal split between combustion and electrical sources. Verstappen flagged the danger of starting races with depleted batteries, recapping a frightening moment during the season opener in Melbourne. “Starting with the 0 per cent battery — not a lot of fun and also quite dangerous,” he said, referring to a near-collision involving Franco Colapinto and Liam Lawson.
Verstappen believes there are “a few simple solutions,” which need to be permitted by the FIA to ensure safety and improve race quality. Despite his frustrations with the regulations, he confirmed his commitment to collaborating with the sport’s governing bodies, saying, “I don’t want to leave, but I also hope, of course, that it gets better.”
Additionally, the 28-year-old revealed that discussions with Formula One and the FIA regarding potential improvements are already underway. “I think we are working towards something, and hopefully that will improve everything,” he explained. He expressed optimism about making meaningful changes as early as next year, and reports confirm that a drivers’ meeting originally scheduled for after the Japanese Grand Prix will now take place following this weekend’s race in Shanghai.
To reignite his passion for motorsport, Verstappen has also announced his participation in the Nurburgring 24 Hours this May. “It’s one of the best races in the world, it’s one of the best tracks,” he said, expressing a desire to compete at both Spa and Le Mans in future years. “I don’t need to be only a Formula 1 driver, I can also do other things,” he added, acknowledging his ability to explore options outside Formula One while managing the complexities of his current situation.
The tensions between drivers and regulatory bodies continue to shape the conversation around Formula One. As Verstappen channels his frustrations into productive discussions, the forthcoming changes could redefine not just driver experiences but the sporting landscape itself.
