Formula 1 back in South Korea with Mercedes for first time in 12 years

Around 25,000 fans attended the Peaches Run Universe 2025 event, witnessing an F1 car in action on Korean soil for the first time since 2013.

Headlining the event, Mercedes third driver and 10-time Grand Prix winner Valtteri Bottas thrilled the crowd with a spectacular demonstration run in the team’s 2022 W13.

The Finn, who will be racing for Cadillac Formula 1 Team in 2026, completed several laps of the 4.5km circuit before lighting up the track with a series of doughnuts to the delight of the enthusiastic audience.

Fans also got to experience the world of Formula 1 up close through Mercedes’ simulators and displays featuring authentic memorabilia, including race-used helmets and overalls.

Reflecting on the event, Bottas said: “It has been brilliant to bring F1 back to South Korea for the first time in 12 years.

"I remember the passion of the fans from when I raced here back in 2013 but if anything, that fandom has grown since then.

"The fans were knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and it was such an honour to have so many people here to enjoy the day," Bottas concluded.

The successful event marks a significant moment for Formula 1’s growing popularity in Asia, with Mercedes reaffirming the sport’s global reach and appetite for live fan engagement.

Formula 1 raced in South Korea four times (2010-2013) at the Yeongam Circuit where Fernando Alonso won the inaugural race with Ferrari while Sebastian Vettel won the remaining three when racing for Red Bull Racing.