Return to the East: Formula One's Epic Comeback to South Korea

Mercedes plans to reintroduce Formula One to South Korea after a 12-year hiatus with a show run in Yongin. Team principal Toto Wolff sees potential for growth in the tech-savvy market. The initiative aligns with Formula One's aim to expand its reach in underrepresented regions and become more environmentally sustainable.

Mercedes is set to bring the thrill of Formula One back to South Korea, marking its return after a 12-year absence with a special show run in Yongin. Team chief Toto Wolff believes that the time is ripe for the sport to make an annual return to this tech-savvy nation.

The announcement comes in the wake of a victorious Sunday at Singapore's Grand Prix, where George Russell secured Mercedes its second win of the season. South Korea previously hosted four grands prix from 2010 to 2013. Wolff argues that the country's tech-oriented population would warmly welcome the evolved dynamics of Formula One.

Recognizing the sport's growth in young and connected demographics, particularly among females aged 15 to 24, Wolff emphasizes South Korea's potential as a market. With current global races largely concentrated in the Americas and the Middle East, Wolff identifies an opening in East Asia, emphasizing the need for grassroots development to boost local driver representation.

(With inputs from agencies.)