The four-time world champion launched a scathing attack on the new rules despite recovering from 20th on the grid to finish sixth at the season opener

Max Verstappen has held talks with Formula One bosses ahead of this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix, following widespread criticism of the sport’s new regulations.

F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali and FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis will also seek views from all 11 team principals in Shanghai.

One potential fix being considered involves lowering the electrical power output from 350kW, which would reduce the battery charging demands currently frustrating competitors.

Separately, the fate of next month’s Bahrain and Saudi Arabian races remains uncertain due to Middle East tensions, with any decision likely delayed until after the Shanghai event.

Cancellation of both rounds would create a five-week break in the calendar.

Verstappen, a four-time world champion, launched a scathing attack on the new rules despite recovering from 20th on the grid to finish sixth at Sunday’s season opener in Melbourne.

The Dutchman likened the current racing experience to a popular video game, expressing his dissatisfaction with how competitors now battle on track.

Verstappen said: “If you enjoy that, then okay, but that’s what I do at home when I play Mario Kart. For me, I didn’t enjoy the way we raced. It is not really proper.”

Max Verstappen has held talks with Formula One bosses ahead of this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix

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His criticism has reportedly prompted F1 executives to contact him directly, with the regulations casting fresh doubt over his long-term commitment to the sport.

Reigning world champion Lando Norris voiced similar frustrations.

He described the new racing format as “very artificial” because drivers must manage battery power and use a boost button when overtaking.

The McLaren driver raised safety concerns about the regulations.

George Russell was all smiles after winning the Australian Grand Prix | REUTERS

He warned that the significant differences in closing speeds between cars could lead to a “big accident” on the track.

A central issue with the current rules is that competitors must effectively reduce their pace at maximum velocity to recharge their batteries, creating unpredictable speed variations throughout the field.

George Russell, who claimed a dominant victory in Melbourne to lead the world championship for the first time in his career, suggested his rivals’ complaints stemmed from disappointment with their results.

Lewis Hamilton, who secured his best finish since joining Ferrari with fourth place, dismissed the criticism from those lower down the order.

Lewis Hamilton has expressed his delight after finishing fourth at the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday

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Hamilton said: “They are further down the line with 20 cars ahead of you.

“It may seem different, but from my position I thought it was great.

“I thought the race was really fun with lots of battling and the car was really fun to drive.

“It was awesome.”