Formula One drivers will compete for the Chinese Grand Prix on March 21–23 at the Shanghai International Circuit. Hundreds of thousands of spectators will witness the intense battles on this unique track while taking in the wonders of the world’s most populous city.
After a five-year pause due to COVID-19 restrictions, China has welcomed back the iconic race in 2024. The organizers have confirmed that the Shanghai round will remain on the championship calendar until 2030 — much to the fans’ delight, as the Shanghai International Circuit is recognized as one of the world’s most exciting tracks. “The racetrack is a wonderful test for our drivers,” said Formula One President and CEO Stefano Domenicali. “I’m thrilled by the exceptional support we receive from this country.” Given that Shanghai is China’s largest metropolis and the world’s most populous city, visitors will surely remember not just the race but countless other memorable experiences — there’s certainly no shortage of attractions here.
These range from architectural marvels like the Jade Buddha Temple to Asia’s tallest TV tower, the Oriental Pearl, cultural venues from dozens of museums to a zoo housing over 7,000 animal species, entertainment options from the iconic Nanjing Lu pedestrian street to Disneyland and the water town of Zhujiajiao (China’s Venice), premier sports facilities including top-tier golf clubs, and of course, countless restaurants — over 150 of which are featured in the Michelin Guide.
Let’s return to the circuit. The massive racing complex opened in 2004 in the northwestern suburb of Jiading, built on former rice fields in a record-breaking 18 months. It’s now easily accessible by metro, avoiding traffic jams — the Shanghai Circuit station on Line 11 is located right at the entrance.
The unique 5,451-kilometer track was designed by Hermann Tilke, the renowned Formula 1 circuit architect. Its layout resembles the Chinese character “shang” (meaning “high” or “rise”) — the first character in Shanghai’s name — featuring an intricate combination of sharp turns, variable-radius curves, and straightaways, with elevation changes of about seven meters. The track is renowned for its complex system of 16 turns (seven left and nine right), while also providing overtaking opportunities with track widths varying from 13 to 20 m and a 1,175-meter straight between turns 13 and 14. While track characteristics limit top speeds (Shanghai’s maximum is 340 km/h compared to F1’s overall record of 372.54 km/h), it’s precisely these challenging conditions that make the Chinese Grand Prix exceptionally thrilling and adrenaline-packed.
Cars typically need just over 90 minutes to complete the 56 laps of the Shanghai International Circuit, covering a total distance of 305.066 km. Throughout the race weekend, fans — up to 200,000 can be accommodated, with 30,000 in the main grandstand overlooking 80% of the track — will find plenty to keep them entertained. They have access to modern facilities and numerous entertainment options and attractions. The support races are particularly popular, featuring Chinese F4 and Porsche Carrera Cup Asia. While not matching F1 speeds, these races give motorsport enthusiasts another chance to appreciate both car performance and driver skill. Notably, the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix will include a sprint format: Friday will feature a single practice session and sprint qualifying, Saturday will host the sprint race and main race qualifying, and Sunday will showcase the grand finale.
Tickets are typically sold as three-day packages. While the circuit doesn’t offer ultra-luxury amenities, premium options like the Paddock Club include prime grandstand seating (higher seats offer better track views), refined dining with wine, champagne bar access, and most importantly, entry to the hallowed pit lane and paddock area where teams and drivers are based.
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