Lewis Hamilton and George Russell join forces over potential new F1 team entry

Lewis Hamilton has stated it would be “great” for a Chinese car manufacturer to join the F1 grid in the future.

The F1 paddock has just departed China following the latest edition of the Shanghai International Circuit, where Hamilton clinched his first podium for Ferrari.

The event saw a sold-out weekend attendance of 230,000 people, with Hamilton noting that he was “so shocked” to see the grandstands at Turns 11 to 13 “completely full”.

As F1 continues to experience growth, Hamilton hailed the impact it has had in the Chinese market, and suggested a Chinese team could be next on the agenda.

“Well firstly, this circuit is phenomenal,” Hamilton told media including RacingNews365. 

“That grandstand, it’s incredible. We did the drivers’ parade, we were looking at it, I took a picture of it, and it’s stood the test of time – the whole paddock, the whole place, and the track is awesome to drive.

“It’s one of the best tracks in the world and one I’ve always loved racing on. 

“I think it’s great that racing and motor sport has continued to grow in China. 

“You’ve got so many amazing car manufacturers here that are as good, if not better, than many around the rest of the world, so it could be great to see one come through at some stage.”

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Russell concurs with former team-mate Hamilton

F1 expanded its grid this year to 11 teams as General Motors entered the sport with Cadillac.

The sport has never had a Chinese team, although in recent days, reports have suggested BYD is mulling over a future entry.

Championship leader George Russell also highlighted the noticeable increase in interest F1 has experienced in China, suggesting it could lead to a manufacturer from the region joining the grid.

“Like Lewis said, it’s the first time we’ve ever had the grandstand at Turn 11 and 12 full,” Russell said.

“I would say this is without doubt the most amount of support I personally have ever received at a race, bar my home grand prix. 

“It just feels like the Chinese fans and everybody in Shanghai is really loving and embracing Formula 1, and it’s just getting stronger and stronger. 

“For sure this is a race to stay. And regarding a Chinese brand, yeah, who knows? It could be a good addition, potentially.”