Verstappen Voices Continued Discontent with New F1 Regulations
Max Verstappen has reiterated his dissatisfaction with the recently implemented Formula One regulations. Amid widespread discontent among drivers, the four-time world champion emphasized that he would consider leaving the sport if he no longer found enjoyment in it—a sentiment that currently appears to reflect his feelings.
Following his comments in Melbourne last week, Verstappen expressed disdain for how the new rules have altered the driving experience. Ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix this weekend, he again criticized the new formula, drawing a comparison to the videogame Mario Kart, a reference increasingly popular among drivers. According to , a drivers’ meeting initially scheduled for after the Japanese Grand Prix later this month has been moved forward to take place after this weekend’s race to address concerns about the regulations.
Simulator Practice Replaced by Mario Kart
When questioned about whether simulator time could help improve the energy management techniques now essential in racing, Verstappen responded with humor:
“I found a cheaper solution. I swapped the simulator for my Nintendo Switch and practising a bit of Mario Kart actually. Finding the mushrooms is going quite well. The blue shell is a bit more difficult but I’m working on it. The rocket? Still not there.”
The energy management is necessary because the new engines deliver power almost equally split between internal combustion and electrical energy. Drivers must carefully manage and deploy electrical energy, which involves techniques that prevent flat-out attacking, require slowing down to harvest power, and optimizing cornering speed to recharge rather than pushing the limits based on grip and conditions. Verstappen has previously criticized these requirements as “anti-racing.”
Recent Performance and Team Dynamics
Verstappen finished sixth at the Australian Grand Prix after starting 20th on the grid at Albert Park, trailing a dominant one-two finish by Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Mercedes are expected to maintain strong performance this weekend in Shanghai. Although Red Bull faces a challenge to catch up, Verstappen’s dissatisfaction is not attributed solely to his team’s position in the standings.
Future Plans and Enjoyment Outside F1
Since securing his four world championships, Verstappen—one of Formula One’s most popular figures—has been clear that he will continue competing only while he enjoys the sport. He has also expressed interest in other racing disciplines, particularly endurance racing.
Verstappen has confirmed his participation in this year’s Nürburgring 24 Hours, driving a Mercedes, describing the event as a “bucket-list” race. He has spoken about the enjoyment he finds competing outside of Formula One.
“I don’t want to leave really. I wish I had a bit more fun for sure, but I’m also doing other stuff that is a lot of fun,”
“I get to race the [Nürburgring] Nordschleife. [I] hope in the coming years I can do Spa, hopefully Le Mans. So, I’m combining stuff to find other stuff that I find really fun as well.
“It’s a bit conflicting because I don’t really enjoy driving the car, but I do enjoy working with all the people in the team and from the engine department as well.”
Dialogue with F1 Leadership and Prospects for Change
When Verstappen initially voiced his concerns about the new rules before the season began, Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that he had spoken with the Dutch driver and was confident Verstappen would remain in the sport. However, the 28-year-old’s critical stance toward the new regulations has persisted.
In China, Verstappen indicated ongoing discussions with the FIA and Formula One management aimed at improvements:
“I don’t want to leave, but I also hope of course that it gets better,”
“I’ve had discussions with F1 and the FIA and I think we are working towards something, and hopefully that will improve everything.”
Given the level of dissatisfaction, it is believed that immediate adjustments to the regulations may be considered following the upcoming meeting in Shanghai.
