The new Formula 1 rules, in addition to much criticism from the drivers, can also count on comparisons with the game Mario Kart. Charles Leclerc already noted during his battle with George Russell in Melbourne that the new boost button looked very much like ‘the mushroom from Mario Kart’. That gave the Ferrari team an idea for the Chinese Grand Prix.
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During the press conference ahead of the Chinese GP, Max Verstappen jokingly said that he has already ‘exchanged his race simulator for a Nintendo Switch’, and will practice for the Grands Prix via Mario Kart from now on. Ferrari has already turned the Dutchman’s idea into concrete action, and shares footage of Charles Leclerc playing the game from the cockpit.
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Only temporary advantage at the starts
In addition to his Mario Kart comparisons over the team radio in Australia, Leclerc also stood out for his world-class start. Ferrari was one of those teams that got away from their starting position immediately. “Unfortunately, I don’t think we will maintain that advantage,” the Monegasque told the media in China. “When all engines are running in the optimal window, I don’t think there will be much difference between the cars at the start. We have an advantage in terms of the robustness of our system, which makes it slightly easier for us to get into that optimal window than others. Especially Mercedes. But as soon as Mercedes knows how to get themselves into the optimal window, I don’t think there will be much difference between the cars.”
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Read everything about the Chinese GP here
