In a scenario where most women struggle to squat with the weight of an adult male, Shi Wei, known online as "Tie Dou", has often been seen doing just that — under less-than-ideal conditions — all to achieve the strong leg muscles and physical fitness requirements of her passion: racing.

From March 21 to 23, the 2025 Formula One Heineken Chinese Grand Prix will roar to life at the Shanghai International Circuit.

It will also mark the return of China's first F1 driver Zhou Guanyu in a new role with Ferrari and the Chinese debut of the F1 Academy, a groundbreaking all-female racing series launched by Formula One in 2023. Lining up on the grid will be wild-card entry Shi, the first Chinese female F1 Academy driver, and champion of the Challenge Cup at the Shanghai leg of the 2024 F4 Chinese Grand Prix.

Transitioning from a media professional to a race car driver, Shi not only continually pushes her limits, but also symbolizes the rise of female drivers in the sport.