Verstappen's Hilarious Take on New F1 Regulations with a Mario Kart Twist

Max Verstappen made a humorous remark about using Mario Kart to practice the new F1 regulations and its impact on the sport's future.

Verstappen jokingly stated he replaced his simulator with Mario Kart to get accustomed to the new rules, criticizing them as 'anti-racing' and 'Formula E on steroids' during pre-season testing.

The Dutch driver remained consistent in his criticism after the Australian Grand Prix, where he finished sixth after starting 20th on the grid.

Recently, Verstappen made a snide comment during the FIA press conference ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, saying he found a cheaper solution by trading his simulator for a Nintendo Switch to play Mario Kart.

Verstappen isn't the first to reference Mario Kart, as Charles Leclerc from Ferrari mentioned it over the radio during a battle with George Russell in Melbourne, saying 'it's like the mushrooms in Mario Kart'.

Verstappen also gave a sarcastic response when asked if F1's battery management issues would improve at the less demanding Shanghai circuit, saying 'No, I'm sure. Fantastic' in a flat tone.

F1 President Stefano Domenicalli previously expressed his confidence that Verstappen wouldn't leave F1 despite his continued criticism of the new generation of cars.

Verstappen, who last year said he wouldn't 'stay' if he didn't find the new F1 cars 'enjoyable' to drive, affirmed that quitting wasn't his intention, but he does have other enjoyable activities, such as racing at the Nordschleife and hopefully at Spa and Le Mans in the future.

Verstappen expressed his love for working with his team and the engine department but acknowledged the contradiction of not enjoying the drive while appreciating the teamwork aspect.

When asked if he was resigned to the state of F1 for the next few years, Verstappen replied that he hoped not and was discussing potential improvements with F1 and the FIA for the upcoming year.