The future of F1 in China

It is still unclear whether Shanghai will renew its hosting rights when they expire after next year's Grand Prix, though a possible $8.5 billion takeover of the sport by a Chinese consortium, led by China Media Capital, would almost certainly see the race stay in China's most populous city.

Many of the fans are eager to see the race renewed. Ling Jia Siong, a McLaren supporter who was at last Sunday's race with his family, said that despite the talk about F1's popularity being on the decline, there is still palpable buzz surrounding the event, which was what made him decide to attend the race for the first time this year.

"It's been a great experience. I would love to see the authorities renew the hosting rights because it's a prestigious event that Shanghai can be very proud of hosting," said Ling.

Juss Event manager Jiang Lan also shed some light on the matter, telling local media that "we can't find a reason not to continue our partnership."

Dreyer believes that a renewal is very likely on the cards and he expects the deal to be sorted out soon.

"I would be very surprised to see the end of the Chinese Grand Prix after the current contract. I think that Ecclestone recognizes that China remains his biggest territory for future growth of the sport, and his pursuit of a US Grand Prix, in spite of the many challenges there, show that he wants F1 to be a truly global championship," said Dreyer.

But perhaps it was Kimi Raikkonen who best summed it up with his trademark blasé attitude during the news conference on April 14, suggesting that regardless of what fans or drivers want, there will ultimately be no glass to fill if one particular person decides so.

"I think Shanghai is a good race circuit. As for driving, it's nice," said the Finn.

"But we go where the races are, we don't decide it. I think Bernie decides where the money comes from so we go, we follow."

alywin@chinadaily.com.cn