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

A surge in global demand has set Yiwu's manufacturing and logistics chain running at full speed this spring, with factories and shippers all working overtime to meet orders bound for markets worldwide.

Many manufacturers in Yiwu, an eastern Chinese city known as "the world’s supermarket," reported a steady rise in orders in the first quarter of 2026.

Among them are sports goods makers racing to deliver ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America.

"In the first two months alone, we sent about four containers of goods. Orders have gradually come in from South America and Africa, and the current orders can keep our production running through May," said Wu Xiaoming, general manager of a sports firm in Yiwu.

At Yiwu's bonded zone, customs brokers swiftly checked documents to ensure exports reach global markets fast.

"Today's shipments mainly are kitchenware, tableware and small home appliances. They are mainly bound for Germany and Spain," said Fu Jianying, a customs broker.

Yiwu has now linked 26 international rail freight routes, building a logistics network that covers more than 160 cities in about 50 countries. With smooth transport, creative design and strong manufacturing capacity, the city's cross-border trade is accelerating, underscoring its role as a hub of global small commodities.

Yiwu cross‑border trade gains speed this spring