Fernando Alonso seeks first Chinese Formula One driver

Spanish driver Fernando Alonso presented a program in China on Wednesday with the goal of finding the first Chinese Formula One driver. The program involves opening several karting schools and tracks to promote motorsport in the Asian giant.

"China has the largest population in the world and the most talent. It is very possible that we can find the next Chinese Formula One driver, we just need dedication and professional work," said Alonso during the project launch event in the city of Shanghai.

In collaboration with technology giant Tencent and Shanghai Yi Qian Communications, the "Alonso New Energy Karting Center and School" project will include the creation of at least forty karting tracks and between three and five schools over the next five years.

Since 2015, Alonso has been associated with the Fernando Alonso Circuit and Museum Foundation, located in Oviedo. The project came about "from the desire to give something back to the sport that has given me so much," said the driver, who expressed his happiness at being able to export his idea to China.

"It is a long journey, but over the next few years, we plan to spread the passion for karting and motorsport across China," he added.

Alonso is in China to compete in the third Formula One race of the season, which will take place this weekend in Shanghai. He will try to confirm that this season is nothing like the previous three.

After finishing fifth in Australia, the McLaren Renault driver finished seventh in Bahrain and is currently fourth in the championship with 16 points, just one point away from his total points from last season (17).

The double Formula One world champion has been waiting for nearly five years to increase his number of victories to 33. The Spaniard won in China in 2005 and 2013, when he secured his penultimate victory.