Michael learned to lip-synch, kung fu superstar Jackie Chan learned to carry a tune and hundreds of majorettes merrily twirled their batons as the Danish rock band, the Hong Kong superstar and the dance troupe wowed the crowds to open race day at the Shanghai Grand Prix.
Earlier fears of an empty stadium proved unfounded as the viewing public came in their thousands for the event. The carnival atmosphere was fuelled by Fosters beer and hot dogs but sales in the stalls were down on last year.
'It is busier today than the past few days. I think it has been reasonably good so far, but not great at all. Generally, this year's formula one here is quieter than last year. Ticket sales are, and the merchandise sales are down, too,' said a BMW Williams' storekeeper, who only gave his name as Mr Cubin.
Kikko Lee, a supervisor of Ferrari team merchandise store, echoed Cubin's sentiments saying sales figures were generally down.
She said: 'This is our first year here. But every other shop is talking about how trade is not as good as last year's volume. Most of the local customers bought Ferrari caps and T-shirts. We have sold a lot of souvenirs to kids as well. But on the last day, everyone is expecting a lower price. We have to give some discounts,' Lee said.
Elsy Aguilear, who helped sell official licensed Ferrari products, said their product was also hit by disappointing sales.
'Sales figures for this year were just so-so. This is our first year at the China Formula One Grand Prix. I am not satisfied,' she said.
