There has never been a Chinese manufacturer on the Formula 1 grid. That fact got a little more attention after the recent race in Shanghai, where the weekend drew about 230,000 spectators and Lewis Hamilton scored his first podium for Ferrari.

Hamilton: China is ready for more

Hamilton said the Shanghai circuit looked incredible, and he was surprised to see the grandstands around Turns 11 to 13 completely full. He called the track one of the best to drive and praised the growth of motorsport in China.

He also pointed out that China now has many competitive carmakers. In his words, some of them are as good as, or better than, manufacturers elsewhere. That led him to suggest it would be "great" if a Chinese brand eventually entered F1.

Russell agrees

George Russell echoed Hamilton's view. He noted the unusually strong support at the Shanghai race, saying it felt like the most fan backing he has experienced at a Grand Prix outside his home event.

F1 expanded to 11 teams this year after General Motors entered with Cadillac. Reports have also suggested that Chinese companies such as BYD are considering a future entry. Russell said the growing interest in China makes a local manufacturer joining the grid a realistic possibility, and that the race in Shanghai looks like one that will stay on the calendar.

Why this matters

  • Big audience: Large crowds and rising TV interest make China an attractive market for F1 and for carmakers seeking exposure.
  • Manufacturing strength: Some Chinese automakers now have the technology and resources to compete at a high level.
  • Industry impact: A new manufacturer could bring investment, jobs, and fresh competition to the paddock.

What could come next

  • Interested automakers may study the costs and regulatory steps required to join F1.
  • Formal discussions would need to involve teams, the sport’s governing bodies, and commercial rights holders.
  • If a Chinese brand decides to commit, the process would likely take several years from announcement to a race-ready entry.

In short, the packed grandstands in Shanghai and positive comments from drivers like Hamilton and Russell make the idea of a Chinese team feel less like a rumor and more like a plausible future. Whether that actually happens will depend on business decisions, regulations, and how quickly a manufacturer wants to move.