This is not the arrogance described by foreign media. From the beginning to the end, whether in words or expressions, Chen Xiangbei shows a calm and composure beyond his age, fundamentally different from those reckless "all bark and no bite" attitudes.
Sha Tong doesn't dare to say he has seen countless people, but at least he is confident in his judgment of Chen Xiangbei—he wasn't mistaken.
If this young man continues to develop well, he'll definitely achieve something great. He hopes not to see Chen Xiangbei crushed under the backlash of public opinion.
"Understood."
Chen Xiangbei nodded seriously, understanding what Sha Tong wanted to express.
Not only in this era, even ten years later, ostentatious athletes will still be controversial.
"Host Sha, on European circuits, I've faced a lot of cold stares and ridicule; they expect to see a Chinese driver acting compliant, adhering to their stereotype of being non-confrontational and easy-going."
"Faced with such a driver, they not only won't ridicule but instead compliment and encourage you when your results are not good, displaying a show of tolerance and magnanimity."
"But I don't want praise for the loser; there should be awe for the victor!"
"I've never backed down overseas, and among my fellow compatriots, I certainly won't show a weak image, letting them think the driver they support is some kind of coward."
"I know strong words will be criticized, but I'm more willing to set an example for future domestic athletes. If you have strength and results, you should be flamboyant, even if you lose in the future, at least you were bold in your youth; it's better than being timid all your life!"
After hearing Chen Xiangbei's words, Sha Tong's expression was complex.
He originally thought he had seen through Chen Xiangbei, but reality proved he was far from it!
The issue with this young man is not about being low-key or arrogant; his vision is far beyond anyone's perception.
In Chen Xiangbei's words, this guy is using his actions to set an example for future Chinese athletes.
He bears the infamy of arrogance, the listeners' acceptance has increased, and future Chinese athletes can showcase their confidence and strength even more freely!
As time ticked away, about an hour passed, and the doors of the hotel conference room opened. The members of the CCTV interview team walked out, indicating the end of Chen Xiangbei's exclusive interview.
Lu Xiaoman, A Yong, and Brother Lei waited curiously at the door, eager to know what was discussed in the interview.
Considering that CCTV is the top-tier television station domestically, if the interview has a good effect, Chen Xiangbei could soon become a household name!
"Xiangbei, we'll be heading off first, wishing you a championship win tomorrow in advance."
Before leaving, Sha Tong specifically bid Chen Xiangbei a couple of farewell words, which made him see this young man in a new light, even though it was just over an hour.
"Thank you, I will."
Chen Xiangbei waved his hand, bidding farewell to the CCTV interview group.
A Yong immediately approached and asked, "Brother Bei, what did the CCTV hosts say, when can we see you on TV?"
"I don't know."
Chen Xiangbei shook his head; it's hard for him to determine the broadcast timing.
"Once broadcasted, Brother Bei, you'll become a celebrity. I wonder when I can appear on CCTV, so my parents can see me from home."
A Yong sounded full of envy; appearing on CCTV is a matter of great honor in his view, and his rural parents would be overjoyed!
"Once you become the chief technician of an F1 team, you'll be on TV."
Chen Xiangbei patted A Yong's shoulder, encouraging him.
"Okay, then I'll strive to enter F1 too!"
"Mm."
Chen Xiangbei said no more, turning to enter the conference hall.
The CCTV interview interrupted his "enlightenment process"; he needs to recall the qualifying session events before sleeping, memorize around a hundred reference points on the circuit, ensuring perfection in every lap.
Given Chen Xiangbei's team member count, his strategy changes are limited.
Other teams bet on a safety car appearance tomorrow, whereas Chen Xiangbei bets against it.
This "gamble," even without revealing all cards, Chen Xiangbei knows it's likely a loss for him.
Given this, he must win clearly against his opponents!
This mindset is not unique to Chen Xiangbei; other teams' drivers weren't idle that night either, studying his pole position recordings to formulate targeted strategies.
Why is there a saying "the tree stands out in the forest, the wind will destroy it"?
Because once you are too prominent and outstanding, you naturally become everyone's enemy!
...
One night passed, and it was the weekend, also the race day for the 56th Grand Prix in Australia.
Compared to the qualifying audience of around thirty thousand, the final race audience reached a historic breakthrough, with official estimates approaching fifty thousand, exceeding the capacity limit of the East Bay Circuit.
Fortunately, the street race has the benefit that buildings on both sides can serve as "stands."
Thus, this scene unfolded: any balcony and window facing the East Bay Circuit were packed with dense crowds of fans and spectators.
They have only one target for their watchful eyes; that is the pole position driver, Chen Xiangbei!
Though his CCTV exclusive interview won't be broadcasted soon, Chen Xiangbei's pole position win yesterday has rapidly spread throughout the Pearl River Delta.
This news, like a major explosive, has not only excited audiences from Hong Kong and Macau nearby, but even attracted mainland fans from Guangdong Province, who "got up early and traveled late into the night" to East Bay Circuit to see the pole position holder Chen Xiangbei.
Furthermore, the ability to secure pole position implies Chen Xiangbei has the capability to contend for the championship; the throngs of fans and supporters eagerly want to witness the emergence of the first Chinese champion in a Grand Prix event.
It's crucial to know this is a moment never seen before in the 55-year history of the Grand Prix.
Those who can be present are witnesses of history!
Not only does the live audience far exceed previous events, many influential figures from politics, business, and the entertainment industry have come to the East Bay Circuit.
The overall heat and atmosphere have a somewhat "downscaled version" feel of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix.
Among them, the most important people are all gathered in the VIP box of the racing building, where they can overlook the entire East Bay Circuit—a prime spot for watching the race.
Currently, in the seventh-floor VIP box, Zhang Zhicong is standing at the floor-to-ceiling window, observing the scene of the pit station, next to the sponsor target he's been seeking.
Chen Xiangbei's pole position performance attracted the international superstar Cheng Long, who traveled from Hong Kong to the East Bay Circuit in person to spectate.
He wants to see if this young lad is worth his bet!
If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.