After failing to score a single point in Shanghai, Max Verstappen's frustrations with the 2026 regulations have only grown stronger, as the four-time world champion said post-race: "It's playing Mario Kart. This is not racing."

For former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya, however, such remarks "shouldn't be accepted" as the Colombian called for F1 to either show disgruntled drivers the door, or issue heavy fines, in order to teach them a lesson.

Montoya said: "It’s fine for people to have an opinion. I’m not saying they have to like it, but mocking Formula 1 and comparing it to Mario Kart, that shouldn’t be accepted by Formula 1."

Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc has defended the 2026 F1 regulations after his thrilling battle with Ferrari teammate Lewis Hamilton in Shanghai, arguing an entirely different viewpoint than longtime rival Verstappen.

Speaking to media, including GPblog, after the Chinese GP, Leclerc expressed more positivity than ever before about the new regulations, pushing back slightly on other drivers' claims that the 2026 racing is 'artificial.'

He said: "I enjoy it and it doesn't feel so artificial from inside the car.”

Leclerc also commented on the Hamilton battle itself: “I really enjoyed it. I'm not sure if you ask the team, they will reply the same. But, I really enjoyed it.

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