Looks like Nintendo is trying to hype up Mario Kart by sponsoring some tournaments via the Mario Kart Channel. Interesting that the tournaments will have specific rules like having to use certain controls schemes, Matt must be thrilled to hear that the only way he can compete is with his favorite peripheral… the Wii Wheel! Anyone interested in participating let us know.

Bonus points: Check out the picture and name that driver?

Here is the official word:

Nintendo has thrown down the gauntlet for Mario Kart® Wii racers worldwide. Now it’s time to see who’s up to the challenge, as players take on the world in Mario Kart Wii Tournaments.

Every few weeks, a new tournament will appear on the Mario Kart Channel, an online feature that not only allows players to compete in tournaments, but also exchange race data with friends. Tournaments might take the form of a challenge for players to race a certain course as fast as they can with specific characters, or to collect a number of coins on a course using the Wii Wheel™ accessory or another control setup. They can feature unique rules or obstacles on the course.

The first tournament, which appears today, directs racers to compete for the fastest time on the Mario Circuit. Look closely though – something may be different. Players can attempt the challenge as often as they like during the duration of the tournament. Their best time will be recorded and added to the worldwide rankings, allowing players to see how they stack up against the best racers from around the world.