F1 live coverage makes Imax world debut in Chinese theaters

From May 31 to June 1, Shanghai Media Group's Great Sports television network will screen live coverage of the Formula 1 Aramco Spanish Grand Prix 2025 in select Imax theaters across China. This marks the first time a global motorsports event will be presented live in Imax.

File photo shows a Formula 1 car and an Imax screen. [Photo/Xinhua, Imax China]

According to the announcement on May 28, the Grand Prix will be shown live exclusively at six select Wanda Cinema Imax locations across China. A standout feature will be the real-time in-theatre commentary delivered by SMG's Great Sports world-class punditry team. 

"This history-making event will bring the world's fastest sport to the world's most immersive cinematic platform – promising an unforgettable experience for China's F1 fans," said Daniel Manwaring, CEO of Imax China. "As Formula 1 prepares to make its debut in cinemas worldwide with 'F1: The Movie,' our partnership with SMG's Great Sports and Wanda Film will show audiences just how gripping motorsport is live on the big screen and continue to expand what's possible in Imax," he added. 

Since 2003, SMG's Great Sports has broadcast every Grand Prix, bringing Formula 1's drama and excitement to millions of Chinese fans. The network continues to elevate viewing through world-leading technology. They are now partnering with Wanda's theater network and Imax China to deliver immersive live experiences where fans witness every hairpin turn and wheel-to-wheel battle in breathtaking Imax format.

"This groundbreaking collaboration with Wanda Film and Imax China marks another major milestone in our long-standing commitment to Formula 1," said Li Yi, chairman and director of Great Sports. "By bringing our studio directly into a Wanda Imax theatre, we're forging a deeper integration between premium sports broadcasting and cinematic exhibition, offering fans a truly new way to experience the thrill of racing, and opening up fresh possibilities for how live sports can be brought to life on the big screen."

In recent years, cinemas have innovated through cross-industry content, with Imax expanding into immersive entertainment beyond films. This showcases both cultural and sporting events. In 2024, more than 150 Imax theaters in North America screened the Paris Olympics opening ceremony live, while the League of Legends World Championship achieved an average 90% occupancy across 150 Imax venues in China. The upcoming Imax live broadcast of Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix 2025 further diversifies premium cinema offerings, giving motorsports fans new ways to share and celebrate their passion.