Ready, set, Shanghai! Your Chinese GP companion
Race weekend in Shanghai, where high-speed straights and technical corners promise plenty of wheel-to-wheel action. We've got you covered with insider knowledge on everything from the best grandstands to local transportation tips, plus the ideal places to stay.
Why the Chinese Grand Prix should be on your F1 bucket listChina joined the Formula 1 calendar in 2004, debuting alongside Bahrain. Since then, it has hosted some memorable moments, including the 2005 season finale, a championship-altering 2007 race and a thrilling display of overtakes in 2018.
Lewis Hamilton's world title sliped away at the 2007 Chinese Grand Prix
The circuit's unique design was inspired by the Chinese character Shang, meaning "above" or "ascend," creating a layout dominated by long straights and tight, low-speed corners. As Nico Hülkenberg puts it, "the layout of the track is quite funky," presenting drivers with a unique challenge they don't face elsewhere.
These provide spectacular overtaking opportunities, most notably during and at the end of the 1.2km straight between Turns 13 and 14 – one of F1's longest stretches of full-throttle road. The 2016 Chinese Grand Prix saw a staggering 161 overtakes throughout the race, making it one of the most action-packed races in F1 history. Beyond the racing, Shanghai has become one of the world's most dynamic and lively cities, making it a truly unique F1 destination that combines cutting-edge modernity with rich cultural history. 
The Chinese Grand Prix brought the 2005 season to an end, with Fernando Alonso crowned as World Champion.
Where's the circuit?The Shanghai International Circuit is located in the Jiading District, approximately 35km from downtown Shanghai. The most convenient way to reach the circuit is via the Metro, with a dedicated station on Line 11. The journey from central Shanghai to the circuit takes around 60 minutes.
Shanghai
Traveling to Shanghai: What you need to knowShanghai is served by Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA), with direct flights available from major cities worldwide.
Most international visitors will need a visa to enter China. Be sure to apply well in advance of your trip as processing times can vary. Arriving a few days before the Grand Prix weekend will give you time to explore this fascinating city and adjust to the time zone. How many days should you spend at the Chinese Grand Prix?We recommend spending three full days, from Friday to Sunday, at the Chinese Grand Prix to experience everything the event has to offer.
Between F1 sessions, you'll also get to enjoy a full schedule of support races including GT World Challenge Asia, F1 Academy, and Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, making it a weekend packed with non-stop action. Chinese Grand Prix weekend schedule at a glance
Here's a quick overview of what to expect each day at the Chinese Grand Prix:
Friday is action-packed with Formula 1 practice and Sprint qualifying, along with practice and qualifying sessions for the support series, including GT World Challenge Asia, F1 Academy, and Porsche Carrera Cup Asia. Saturday begins with GT World Challenge Asia qualifying, followed by the Formula 1 Sprint race, support series races, and culminating with the Formula 1 qualifying session. Sunday features support series races, the drivers' parade, and the highlight of the weekend—the Chinese Grand Prix. 
Best places to stay for the Chinese Grand PrixMost traveling fans choose to stay in central Shanghai, particularly in the sprawling Pudong district, which has a variety of dining and entertainment options. From here, you can easily access the circuit via Metro Line 2 & 11.
Recommended hotels include:
Best Grandstands for key momentsThe Shanghai International Circuit's layout features two long straights that create perfect overtaking opportunities:
Grandstands H & K – Overlooking the Turn 14-15 hairpin, these stands put you in the best position to watch overtaking action as drivers brake hard after the long back straight. This is where most of the race's passing moves happen! 
Grandstands H & K
Grandstand A – Located on the start-finish straight and opposite the pits, giving you a perfect view of the race start, pit stops throughout the event, and the podium ceremony after the checkered flag.
​Grandstand A
Where next?After experiencing the excitement of the Chinese Grand Prix, take time to explore Shanghai's incredible contrasts – from the futuristic skyline of Pudong to the historic architecture of the Bund.
Visit the ancient water town of Zhujiajiao for a glimpse into traditional Chinese life, or take a high-speed train to nearby Suzhou to explore its famous classical gardens. For those with more time, consider extending your trip with a visit to Beijing to see the Great Wall and the Forbidden City. |
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Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.
His love for Formula One started in the 1990s, watching the greats like Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, and Mika Hakkinen. He traveled to his first Grand Prix in 1999. It was the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Since then, Rob has traveled to over 2/3 of Grand Prix' on the current Formula One calendar. Fast forward to today, and Rob has turned his passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream Formula One trips. His favourite Grand Prix destinations are Austria and Austin, and when he's not attending a Formula One Grand Prix, you'll find him closer to home, walking or cycling in the Peak District National Park. |
