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Explained: Why Max Verstappen Retired From the F1 Chinese GP

Max Verstappen, four-times world champion, retired from the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai on March 15 with a power-unit problem and called F1's new era a 'joke'.
Tracing the cause, the 2026 Formula 1 regulations mandate nearly 50% of power from the battery pack, which Verstappen warned about since 2023, calling it 'fundamentally flawed'.
Race data shows that Verstappen dropped to 12th at the start of Sunday's race before working his way back to sixth and retiring with ten laps remaining.
Teams and rivals noted that the race produced intense battles and Kimi Antonelli secured his maiden F1 win, while Mercedes boss Toto Wolff praised the racing, saying 'Sometimes we are nostalgic about the good old years, but I think the product is good in itself'.
Asked about fixes, Verstappen said 'You can help it a little bit, but it's fundamentally flawed' and highlighted the need for changes beyond just overtakes and fan growth.

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