Formula 1 and Tencent Renew Partnership to Boost F1’s Popularity in Mainland China

Image Credentials: Formula 1 and Tencent Renew Partnership to Boost F1’s Popularity in Mainland China  Source: (sora.chatgpt) Date: July 2025  Attribution: Created by AI-generated imagery (sora.chatgpt); it does not depict a real-world scene.

By Open Chronicle Motorsport F1 Staff  with Agencies

In a major move to strengthen the reach of Formula 1 in mainland China, Formula 1 and Tencent have renewed their partnership for a multi-year agreement. This deal, which runs until the end of 2027, ensures that Tencent remains the exclusive digital media broadcaster for F1 in the country, continuing to bring the world of motorsport to millions of Chinese fans.

With an ever-expanding fanbase in China, Formula 1 has seen explosive growth, and Tencent’s vast digital ecosystem will play a pivotal role in amplifying this surge. The renewed partnership promises to elevate the viewing experience for Chinese audiences, offering comprehensive coverage of F1 Grand Prix races, Qualifying, Practice, and F1 Sprint sessions throughout the season. The deal will also cover the exciting new all-female racing series, F1 ACADEMY, which makes its Chinese debut this year.

Expanding Digital Coverage Across Multiple Platforms

As part of the agreement, Tencent will continue to utilize its wide-reaching platforms, including Tencent Video, Tencent Sports, WeChat, Tencent News, qq.com, and QQ, to provide fans with easy access to all F1 content. This includes live broadcasts of every race and exclusive highlights, as well as behind-the-scenes coverage that will bring fans closer to the action.

Additionally, the partnership will enhance the overall viewing experience with high-definition visuals, onboard cameras, and expert commentary. Tencent will also utilize its state-of-the-art XR studio, bringing fans an immersive experience that places them at the heart of the race action. The incorporation of extended reality (XR) technology will allow fans to view the drama and excitement of the race from multiple perspectives, ensuring they never miss a moment of the action.

For the Formula 1 Heineken Chinese Grand Prix 2025, Tencent Sports will also deliver a suite of programming that delves into racing technology, team strategies, and the personal stories of the drivers, further connecting fans with the sport on a deeper level.

F1 ACADEMY: A New Era for Motorsport in China

One of the most exciting elements of this partnership is the introduction of F1 ACADEMY to China. The all-female racing series, which aims to inspire and develop young female drivers, will begin its first season in 2024, with a historic debut in Shanghai. Shi Wei, the first Chinese driver to compete in the series, will take to the grid for the opening round on March 21, a groundbreaking moment for the sport in China.

F1 ACADEMY is expected to spark greater interest among young motorsport fans, particularly among women, and with Tencent’s support, the series is poised to capture a whole new generation of viewers.

F1’s Return to China: A Resounding Success

Formula 1’s return to the Shanghai International Circuit in 2024, after a five-year hiatus, marked a record-breaking event. The race attracted over 200,000 spectators, while more than 14.8 million viewers tuned in across China—a staggering 50% increase in viewership compared to the previous edition in 2019.

With such a significant rise in popularity, Formula 1 has also extended its contract to race in China through 2030. Tencent’s extensive broadcasting reach will be key in strengthening F1’s presence in the country and further cultivating the growing motorsport culture across China.

A Growing Fanbase and a Promising Future

Formula 1’s growth in China is undeniable, with a fanbase of more than 150 million and increasing interest, particularly among younger audiences. The collaboration with Tencent aims to capitalize on this momentum, offering fans dynamic programming and exclusive content that enhances their connection to the sport.

Michaella Snoeck, Head of Media Rights at Formula 1, expressed her excitement about the partnership:

“Since the return of Formula 1 to China last year, it’s been great to see millions of fans across China tune in every weekend to watch the drama and excitement of Formula 1. The incredible viewership shows a real passion for the sport, and by bringing F1 ACADEMY to China for the first time this season, we hope to continue to build on the growing female audience in the country.”

Tencent’s Vice President of Online Video, Jeff Han, echoed the optimism, emphasizing the role of digital content in engaging with younger Chinese fans:

“The popularity of F1 events in China is on the rise, particularly among younger audiences. Our collaboration with F1 is poised to ignite a new wave of motorsport enthusiasm. We aim to enhance the broadcasting of F1 events and develop high-quality content, enabling more users to experience the passion and unique allure of motorsport in a comprehensive and intuitive manner.”

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for F1 in China

With the F1 ACADEMY series poised to make history and Formula 1’s fanbase continuing to grow at an unprecedented rate, the future of motorsport in China looks incredibly promising. Tencent’s role as a broadcasting partner will be critical in further developing the sport’s popularity and expanding its reach across the country. By creating engaging content, leveraging state-of-the-art technology, and connecting with fans across its massive platforms, Tencent is perfectly positioned to help Formula 1 thrive in China for years to come.

This multi-year partnership represents not just a renewal of broadcasting rights, but a step forward in Formula 1’s long-term commitment to expanding its global footprint and fostering new fans in one of the world’s most important markets.