Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix fuels business partnership, inbound tourism in Shanghai

As the 2026 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix returns to Shanghai from Friday to Sunday, the excitement has been breaking free from the circuit and fueling business partnership and inbound tourism.

Speaking with China Global Television Network (CGTN) on the sidelines of the event, Emily Prazer, Formula 1 Chief Commercial Officer, said they have partnered with different brands to engage with more new fans and expect more cooperation with local tech companies.

"The cultural shift for us is starting to partner with local brands like Gentle Monster to make sure that we have more presence here year round, and not just coming for a three-day race weekend. We want to make sure we're fully integrated into the community. Obviously, China is at the forefront of all R and D and all technology development. We look forward to future endeavors with the Chinese technology businesses," she said.

One of its partners is Disney, which has launched its "Fuel the Magic," campaign in which Mickey and Minnie have suited up in racing gear at Shanghai Disneyland Resort. According to the entertainment giant, the fusion aims to create unique experiences for consumers.

"We have already launched a dynamic series of marketing events together with Formula One and key partners like Gentle Monster, Uniqlo, and Miniso. The debut of our brand-new Mickey-inspired car, Mickey and Friends sporting their Formula 1 fandom in a stylish new way. The race weekend will act as a strong catalyst for consumer spending," said Kermid Rahman, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Disney Consumer Products Asia Pacific.

For the most dedicated fans, the Formula 1 calendar has now become their global travel map.

Official data show that China reached over 221 million claimed F1 fans, up 39 percent year on year. This vibrant fan culture is the undeniable lifeblood of the Shanghai Grand Prix.

"You enjoy the party from Friday to Sunday, you just hang out with all the fans from all over the world. I think it's one of the most international races among them all," said Chief Thomas, an F1 influencer and fan.

Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix fuels business partnership, inbound tourism in Shanghai

International Energy Agency (IEA) Executive Director Fatih Birol warned on Thursday that the global oil market may enter a "red zone" in July and August this year, as fuel demand rise and stocks dwindle.

Birol noted that the supply crisis triggered by the situation in the Middle East was initially cushioned by spare capacity in the global oil market, but that oil stocks are now gradually decreasing.

The 32 members of the IEA on March 11 unanimously agreed to make 400 million barrels of oil from their emergency reserves available to the market in response to disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict.

The IEA stands ready to coordinate further reserve releases if necessary, Birol added.

IEA chief warns of global oil market entering "red zone" this summer