Formula One (F1) is the pinnacle of motorsport, where the best drivers from around the world compete for the F1 championship. It came to Shanghai last weekend for what was the most thrilling race of the season so far. There were three different drivers holding the lead during the race, plus two major crashes.

However the biggest cheer at the circuit was not for the winner, it was the announcement of third place. It was for the “Iceman”, or Kimi Raikkonen, a veteran Ferrari racer from Finland.

But why does the man who is not even the fastest racer on his team have this type of following in China?

Kimi’s fan club gather before the race

To understand it, we have to go back to 2003. Formula One was only broadcast in China from then. Before that, the country was shut off from racing. The drivers of this era were, therefore, the first icons for racing fans.

As Jenny, a superfan from Shanghai told me “he is a hero that doesn’t always have a happy ending”. And that has really resonated with Chinese racing fans.

Two fans show their appreciation for Kimi at the race

His heroic moments such as starting 17th in a race in Japan in 2005 and finishing 1st, or surviving the whole race in Germany during the same year with broken suspension makes him a legendary “almost man” in China. Moments of brilliance, but just falling short.

The Kimi fans at the race supporting their hero

One fan attends the race in full Kimi cosplay.

His attitude and personality also resonate with the Chinese people. He is known as the coolest driver, the “Iceman” is known for his honesty and frankness. Renowned for being non-media trained and speaking his mind, dismissing sponsors and talking about his bowel movements. It is unsurprising this resonates with Chinese fans who are often used to seeing media and sports stars appear scripted. It is similar to how they responded enthusiastically to the honest 2016 Olympians, such as Fu Yuanhui during the Rio Olympics.

Ava’s wears her “Kimi” shirt and hat and hat every year

Despite his best years behind him, in 2018, the fandom does not seem to be getting any less significant. And judging by the photo below, Chinese racing parents are ensuring their children will continue to be fans of the legendary racer from Finland at future races.

The next generation of Kimi superfans pose by the new F1 Logo