The Shanghai International Circuit is set to make a comeback on the Formula 1 calendar in 2024. The last race held at this venue was in 2019, after which the Grand Prix in China was put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The circuit’s layout, intriguingly, is based on the Chinese character ‘shang’ (上), the first syllable of Shanghai (上海).
Shanghai International Circuit: A Mainstay Since the Early 2000s
Since the early 2000s, the circuit in China has been a consistent feature on the Formula 1 calendar. From its inaugural race in 2004 to the 2019 edition, the Grand Prix was never skipped. Over the years, the race has seen some illustrious winners. For instance, Michael Schumacher clinched his 91st and ultimately last Grand Prix victory here in 2006. Lewis Hamilton, another seven-time world champion, has also tasted victory six times at the Shanghai International Circuit.
A Bittersweet Memory for Hamilton
However, there’s one moment at this circuit that Hamilton probably wishes to forget. On the cusp of his first world title in his debut Formula 1 season, Hamilton made a costly error during a pit stop in China. Instead of turning left as he should have, he drove straight into the gravel trap. This mistake ultimately cost him the title, a painful memory indeed.
Key Facts about the Chinese Grand Prix:
- Inauguration: 2004
- First F1 Race: 2004
- Location: Shanghai, China
- Track Length: 5.451 km
- Number of Turns: 16
- Most Victories: Lewis Hamilton (6)
- Lap Record: Michael Schumacher (1.32.238 in 2004)
Recent Winners of the Chinese Grand Prix:
- 2019: Lewis Hamilton
- 2018: Daniel Ricciardo
- 2017: Lewis Hamilton
- 2016: Nico Rosberg
- 2015: Lewis Hamilton
- 2014: Lewis Hamilton
An Unexpected Winner
The 2018 edition of the Chinese Grand Prix is one that won’t be forgotten quickly. It was a race filled with brilliant overtaking maneuvers, but also incidents. Max Verstappen had a disappointing Sunday in Shanghai that year. He collided with Sebastian Vettel, causing both drivers to spin. This happened while Verstappen’s teammate, Daniel Ricciardo, was skillfully fighting his way to the front. He ultimately clinched the victory. “I can’t win boring races,” the Australian concluded tellingly after the tumultuous race.
Return of the Formula 1 Grand Prix to China in 2024
After a four-season hiatus, Formula 1 is set to make a comeback in China. The vast Asian country provides an unmissable platform for both the commercial and sporting aspects of the event. Moreover, with Sauber driver Guanyu Zhou, there is a Chinese racer on the grid. According to Zhou, the popularity of Formula 1 in his country has increased, even in the years when there was no Grand Prix.
The Chinese Grand Prix is scheduled for Sunday, April 24, 2024. Perhaps this could be the opportunity for Max Verstappen to claim a victory, as he has never won at the Shanghai International Circuit, largely due to the absence of the Grand Prix.
What is the schedule for the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix?
Friday, April 19
05:30 – 06:30 First free practice
09:30 – 10:14 Sprint qualification
Saturday, April 20
05:00 – 06:00 Sprint
09:00 – 10:00 Qualification
Sunday, April 21
09:00 – 11:00 Race
