Four-time world champion Max Verstappen didn’t hold back on Thursday, joking that Formula One’s new technical era feels more like a video game than elite motorsport.
After a weekend in Australia where he battled from 20th to 6th following a qualifying crash, the Red Bull driver admitted he’s finding more realism on his Nintendo Switch than in his professional simulator.
Verstappen criticized the new 50-50 split between conventional and electrical power, noting that features like active aero and boost buttons feel like “Mario Kart.”
“I’m practising with Mario Kart, actually. Finding the mushrooms is going quite well, the blue shells are a bit more difficult,” he said.
To combat his lack of “fun” in the F1 cockpit, Verstappen confirmed he will race the Nürburgring 24-hour this year, with eyes on Le Mans and Spa.
Despite the frustration, the Dutchman remains optimistic, noting that drivers are currently in talks with the FIA to refine the regulations and improve the driving experience.
