China’s leading automakers Geely and BYD are expanding into motorsport to boost their global profiles and showcase automotive innovation, with Geely aiming to bring the Superbike World Championship to the country and BYD exploring entry into Formula 1.
- Geely targets hosting WSBK to raise China's motorsport profile
- ZXMOTO wins historic double in WorldSSP category
- BYD pursues Formula 1 entry and builds EV racing infrastructure
What happened
Geely Auto, China’s second-largest carmaker, led by billionaire Li Shufu, announced plans to bring the prestigious Superbike World Championship (WSBK) to China. Li and Zhang Xue, founder of Chinese motorcycle brand ZXMOTO, will jointly promote this initiative. ZXMOTO achieved a landmark double victory in the WorldSSP category earlier this year, marking the first time a Chinese brand topped the podium in this international racing series, which features modified production motorcycles competing globally.
In parallel, BYD, the world’s largest electric vehicle maker and Geely’s fiercest competitor, revealed its ambition to enter Formula 1 racing. The company also opened China’s first racetrack dedicated to electric vehicles in Zhengzhou, promoting the adoption and visibility of EV technology. These moves reflect an intensified rivalry between Geely and BYD, who have vied for the title of China’s largest carmaker throughout 2026 amid shifting consumer preferences and a growing global demand for electric vehicles.
Why it matters
For Geely, hosting WSBK in China is a strategic effort to enhance its global automotive reputation and inspire domestic motorcycle fans by showcasing Chinese brands on an international motorsport stage. This step aligns with Geely’s broader goal to be recognized as a top-tier global auto manufacturer with cutting-edge technologies and diverse new models, including performance motorcycles produced by ZXMOTO.
BYD’s push to enter Formula 1 and investment in dedicated electric vehicle racing infrastructure further underline the company’s commitment to blending high-performance motorsport with its core technological philosophy. As China’s auto market increasingly shifts towards electrification, these motorsport ventures act as platforms for both companies to amplify brand differentiation, accelerate technology development, and strengthen global competitiveness amid the ongoing energy transition.
What to watch next
The successful hosting of the WSBK in China could significantly boost Geely’s profile internationally and stimulate domestic motorsport interest, potentially accelerating innovation within its motorcycle division and broader automotive business. Observers should track how this influences Geely’s market share and brand perception among younger consumers drawn to performance and technology.
Meanwhile, BYD’s progress towards Formula 1 participation and the impact of its EV-specific racetrack on China's electric vehicle ecosystem will be critical indicators of its evolving strategy and market influence. Both automakers’ moves in motorsport will likely set the tone for China’s role on the global automotive and motorsport stage, creating a competitive environment fostering technological advancements and brand elevation.