Zhou wants to inspire a new generation of hometown heroes

SHANGHAI — Competing in the 2024 Formula One Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit, which marked his inaugural home appearance as China's first F1 race driver, Zhou Guanyu could not hide his joy and pride.

"I'm a Shanghai boy, driven by an ambition to showcase the evolution of Chinese motor sport globally, and to pave the way for more young talent from my country to shine on the international stage," Zhou told Xinhua.

Zhou voiced his desire for younger enthusiasts to pay increased attention to motor sport, and to see greater participation in the field, believing the Shanghai race to be the catalyst for China's motor sport industry.