[Saba Sports News] While the paddock spotlight fell on Max Verstappen competing in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race, McLaren driver Oscar Piastri, Williams racer Alexander Albon and Audi rookie Gabriel Bortoleto skipped leisure holidays. They headed to Brignoles Karting Circuit in France to stay race-fit through intense kart races.
The circuit operator shared footage of their training. Albon even wore his official Williams racing suit, showing his serious attitude towards the practice. The Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were unexpectedly cancelled. Drivers only took part in one official grand prix within eight weeks ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix. With such a long break from formula racing, karting stands as the most straightforward and effective way for pros to maintain competitive form.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff spoke highly of this fundamental training method. He noted nearly all elite F1 drivers started out in karting. The fiercely competitive and pure racing environment brings precious childhood memories and fosters sharp racing instincts.
In my opinion, karting activates neuromuscular response, serving as an efficient and safe way to retain racing rhythm. McLaren tacitly allows and even endorses such non-mechanical training.