F1 LIVE | Verstappen told to quit F1 over 2026 criticism, Leclerc rejects 'artificial' racing claim
Photo: Red Bull Content Pool
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Henry Eccles is a freelance Formula 1 journalist for GPblog, covering breaking news, live race blogs, and features across the F1 calendar. Since joining in 2026, he has produced high-volume reporting on the sport’s biggest stories, alongside feature pieces including analysis and historical content.
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Max Verstappen told to quit F1 over 2026 'Mario Kart' criticism
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.
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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."
Photo: Race Pictures
Leclerc hits back at ‘artificial’ 2026 F1 claims after epic Hamilton battle
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.'
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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.
“Honestly, these cars for races, it's actually quite fun and yeah, it was just a cool race. At the end of the day, Lewis was just stronger and I'm happy for his podium."
Photo: Race Pictures
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