Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen of the Netherlands celebrates on the podium on Sunday after winning the Chinese Grand Prix. WEI XIAOHAO/CHINA DAILY
Another major attraction of this year's F1 Chinese GP was the appearance of China's first ever F1 driver Zhou Guanyu. It was the first time for Zhou, who started his career in 2022 when the Chinese GP was not on the F1 calendar, to compete in front of home fans.
"I'm a little bit emotional, and I have shown all that I can on the track inside the circuit. For me, this is a very exciting weekend with mixed feelings. There are so many fans here to support me. Years ago, it's unthinkable that there will be a Chinese driver in F1 Chinese GP.And now it's me who stands here as a Chinese F1 driver," said Zhou, a Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber hire who finished 14th among 20 drivers.
"Over the past years, I have been through many difficulties. And at this moment, I have released all my pressures. I made some mistakes on the track during the weekend, and I know I can be better. This is my debut at the Shanghai International Circuit, and I'm deeply touched by fans here. They gave us the best atmosphere. I'm so happy," he said.
Zhou said that his dream started in Shanghai and, now, he has returned to the city as an F1 driver."With my own experiences, I want to inspire a new generation of people to give all they have to chase their dreams. Just march forward with great confidence."