What do Formula One drivers do when they’re not racing? Binge-watching Drive to Survive on Netflix? Playing more Formula One-related games? After last weekend in Shanghai, the Ferrari garage has some fresh answers.
While the race itself didn’t go Ferrari’s way — both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton were disqualified due to technical infringements — the team still made the most of their off-track time in China, joining their reserve driver Zhou Guanyu for a deep dive into local culture.
The Ferrari duo, Leclerc and Hamilton, took a break from the circuit to try their hand at Chinese calligraphy with Zhou. Leclerc, perhaps more confident than prepared, surprised Zhou by skipping the tutorial and writing out Chinese characters on his own — leaving Zhou briefly speechless.
Hamilton took a more humble approach, joking he felt like he was back in kindergarten while attempting to write “中国” (China). Struggling to write his name in Chinese, the seven-time world champion and the winner of F1 Sprint in Shanghai laughed, “How is Charles less complicated than Lewis?” as Zhou walked him through the strokes.
The trio enjoyed a light-hearted moment together as they practiced writing and pronouncing Chinese characters — a refreshing break from the usual intensity of Formula One perhaps.
Outside the classroom, Leclerc stepped into the fast-paced world of Chinese livestream e-commerce. On March 19, he joined Zhou and actor Wei Zheming on Taobao for a Puma x Ferrari collaboration livestream. The Monegasque driver introduced Puma’s new collection, played games with the host, and even flexed his calligraphy skills again — writing his last name in Mandarin with impressive talent. He wrapped up the stream with a gift: limited-edition Puma shoes embroidered with his name in Chinese.
Adding to his Shanghai presence, Leclerc debuted a custom helmet design inspired by traditional Chinese culture. The white base featured a bold red snake — a nod to the Year of the Snake — and swirling xiangyun (auspicious clouds), symbols often associated with luck and harmony in Chinese art. Off the grid, Leclerc’s girlfriend, Alexandra Saint Mleux, also turned heads with her race day look, wearing a modern black qipao that paid stylish tribute to local tradition.
Hamilton, meanwhile, stayed in the fashion lane but took the offline route. He made an appearance at a Shanghai pop-up store for his own brand, +44, in collaboration with Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama. Held at the JUICE store in Shanghai, the event drew large crowds of eager fans who came not only to see the seven-time world champion but also to shop the exclusive collection and score an autograph. With limited-edition pieces on display and Hamilton mingling with supporters, the pop-up created a buzz that blended high fashion with Formula One star power.
Ferrari wasn’t the only team leaning into the local culture. Several drivers debuted Shanghai-inspired helmet designs: George Russell drew from traditional Chinese armor and the Year of the Snake, while Alex Albon’s design paid tribute to Sichuan opera. Mercedes also released a light-hearted video of Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli playing mahjong — albeit not quite correctly.
On the track, McLaren had a weekend to remember. Oscar Piastri clinched his first win of the season, calling it a “home victory” thanks to his 1/16 Chinese heritage from his great great grandfather. Teammate Lando Norris followed in second, while George Russell secured third for Mercedes. Driver of the Day honors went to Antonelli, who continued to impress with strong performances in the opening rounds of his Formula One debut season.
The paddock now shifts to Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix, set for April 4–6. As the season rolls on, Shanghai reminded fans that Formula One is more than just speed — it’s also about culture, connection, and unexpected moments off the grid.
After stops in Japan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, Formula One will officially return to the U.S. in May for the Miami Grand Prix. For more updates, visit the official Formula 1 website — and for fans craving more behind-the-scenes action, Netflix’s Formula One: Drive to Survive continues to deliver all the off-track drama.
