Regarding the skyrocketing popularity domestically, Chen Xiangbei had somewhat anticipated it. After all, earning the title of China's first official F1 driver in 2009 still carried some weight.
But when he witnessed it firsthand, he was still stunned.
November 13th, the eve of the official start of the ROC National Cup.
At Yanjing International Airport, Chen Xiangbei, wearing a mask and a baseball cap, discreetly exited the arrival gate alone, dragging his suitcase behind him.
Before boarding the plane to return home, Chen Xiangbei contacted Qin Lianjie and learned that Yanjing International Airport was now packed with reporters and racing fans. It wasn't that they were there specifically to welcome Chen Xiangbei, but with the imminent start of the ROC National Cup, countless top drivers were arriving in Yanjing.
The media wouldn't miss the opportunity for interviews, and as for the racing fans, they were eager to see their racing idols as soon as possible.
