Toto Wolff hints at a possible second Formula 1 race in China, following a successful Shanghai GP and growing local interest.
Formula 1 might add a second race in China, according to Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff.
After the opening double-header in Australia and Shanghai, Wolff has opted out of the long journey to Japan, the first of a three-race stretch.
“Bradley Lord will represent the team; he’ll take my place. And as you know, he’s much more cautious than I am!” Wolff said.
“It’s purely by coincidence that I’m missing Japan again. It’s not the time zone that’s keeping me away!”
The Austrian missed the Japanese Grand Prix in 2023 and was initially planning to miss it in 2024, before changing his plans at the last minute. He has skipped a few other races in recent years, and with a packed calendar of 24 races, this trend is likely to continue.
But Wolff believes that F1 could host a second race in China.
“I was on the grid and saw the packed stands along the main straight and in the first corner,” he said.
“Their knowledge of Formula 1 is impressive. Could there be a second race? I think, why not? It’s one of the world’s largest economies.”
“So yes, if we can maintain a high level of excitement, it’s definitely possible.”
China’s only current F1 driver, Guanyu Zhou, is now a reserve driver for Ferrari after losing his seat at Sauber. However, he remains a potential candidate for a spot with Cadillac F1 in 2026.
Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1’s director, also manages the 25-year-old driver.
“I’m looking forward to any opportunity,” Zhou said during the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. “And of course, I’m happy that Graeme is the team director at Cadillac, but that doesn’t change anything.”
“What helps me is that he knows me, so my CV will be considered. Ultimately, the decision will be made by several people.”
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Wolff Sees China Expansion for F1’s Future
Wolff Sees China Expansion for F1’s Future
