VERSTAPPEN JOKES ABOUT MARIO KART BUT ADMITS FRUSTRATION WITH F1 CARS
Formula 1 has returned for the Chinese Grand Prix, and with it the usual round of driver comments about the current generation of cars and the racing they produce. Among the most outspoken was four-time world champion Max Verstappen, who mixed humor with honest criticism during the press conference.
Verstappen joked that he has found an unusual alternative to simulator training. Rather than spending hours refining his skills in a virtual F1 car, he claimed he has switched to something a bit more playful.
“I found a cheaper solution, I swapped the simulator for my Nintendo Switch,” he said with a smile. “I’m practicing with Mario Kart actually. Finding the mushrooms is going quite well, the blue shells are a bit more difficult. I’m working on it. The rocket is still not there, it’s coming.”
The Dutch driver’s lighthearted comments reflected a deeper frustration he has previously expressed about the current Formula 1 machinery and racing dynamics.
Despite those concerns, Verstappen made it clear that he has no intention of walking away from the sport anytime soon. Instead, he has been keeping his motivation high by exploring other forms of racing alongside his Formula 1 career.
“I wish I had a bit more fun for sure, but I’m also doing other stuff that is a lot of fun,” Verstappen explained. “I get to race the Nordschleife. I hope in the coming years that I can do Spa, hopefully Le Mans.”
By expanding his motorsport activities beyond Formula 1, Verstappen says he has found a balance that keeps his passion for racing alive.
“I’m combining other stuff that I find really funny as well. I have a lot of distractions at the same time, positive distractions, I would say,” he said.
At the same time, Verstappen acknowledged a conflict between his love of competition and his feelings about the current F1 cars.
“It’s a bit conflicting because I don’t really enjoy driving the car in Formula 1,” he admitted. “But I do enjoy working with all the people in the team and from the engine department as well. It’s almost like a bit of a mind… I can’t swear!”
The Red Bull driver also revealed that he has already spoken with Formula 1 leadership about possible improvements to the current regulations.
“I don’t want to leave, but I also hope of course that it gets better,” Verstappen said. “I’ve had discussions with FOM and FIA, and I definitely hope, not for the next few years, but already for next season, that we can make a decent improvement. There are a few options that we are discussing.”
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