Mar.13 (GMM) Ferrari posted a social media video from Shanghai of Charles Leclerc playing Mario Kart on his steering wheel display in the cockpit – a tongue-in-cheek embrace of the mockery that has followed Formula 1 since Melbourne.
It preceded Max Verstappen doubling down on the gaming comparison in Thursday’s FIA press conference, where the Red Bull driver was asked whether simulator work gives drivers an edge managing the 2026 cars’ complex energy systems.
“I found a cheaper solution,” Verstappen said. “I swapped the simulator for my Nintendo Switch and yeah, practicing 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’s still not there. It’s coming.”
The quip extended a joke that began at Albert Park last week, when Leclerc radioed his team during a battle with George Russell to say the battery boost felt “like the mushroom in Mario Kart.” That line has since become shorthand for a broader and more serious debate about whether the 2026 regulations have delivered the racing spectacle F1 intended.
Sergio Perez, back in the paddock with Cadillac after his exit from Red Bull, is not laughing. Speaking in Shanghai, the Mexican gave his bluntest assessment yet of what he witnessed in Australia.
“I found the sport in Australia artificial. Everything is controlled by a button. You overtake, then later you get overtaken yourself. It feels like Mario Kart.”
Perez pointed to one of the specific dangers exposed in Melbourne – the instability at race starts caused by restrictions on battery recharging across a single lap, including the formation lap. The rule left cars at varying states of charge on the grid, contributing to Liam Lawson’s near-miss with Franco Colapinto’s Alpine.
He offered little hope that the regulation framework can be quickly fixed, however.
“Changing the regulations is virtually impossible because some teams currently have an advantage. And they certainly won’t give that up voluntarily,” said Perez.
“Ultimately, what we have now isn’t good for anyone.”
Ferrari is among those resistant to altering the start rules, having mastered the current parameters to their benefit. Mercedes and its customer teams, leading the constructors’ standings, have also shown little appetite for wholesale changes.
But Toto Wolff has signalled some openness to targeted tweaks, and championship leader George Russell was pointed in his criticism of Ferrari’s position on the harvest limit.
“The FIA did just want to make our life easier and just remove this harvest limit, but people have selfish views and they want to do what’s best for themselves,” Russell said.
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES