December 7, 2024: Formula 1 has confirmed a five-year extension for the Chinese Grand Prix, ensuring that the Shanghai International Circuit will remain part of the F1 calendar through the 2030 season.
The announcement follows F1’s successful return to China in 2024, after a five-year hiatus, where the race attracted an impressive 200,000 spectators. Max Verstappen emerged victorious, winning both the Sprint and the Grand Prix, which helped reignite the excitement around the event.
Since its debut in 2004, the Shanghai International Circuit—with its unique 5.45 km layout—has become a fan and driver favorite. The circuit is renowned for its challenging features, including the sharp Turns 1 and 2, as well as the high G-force corners Turns 7 and 8. It offers a mix of technical and high-speed sections, making it a true test of a driver’s skill. Fans are also drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of Shanghai, combining world-class racing with the city’s rich culture.
Over its 20-year history, the Chinese Grand Prix has seen a variety of winners. Starting with Rubens Barrichello’s victory in the inaugural race, the event has witnessed notable wins, including six victories by Lewis Hamilton and two by Fernando Alonso, both of whom remain key figures in the current F1 grid.
F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his excitement about the extension, calling it a “fantastic moment” for the sport. He highlighted the growing support for Formula 1 in China and praised both the Shanghai city and the circuit for their contributions to the sport. He said, “Our return to China this season for the first time since 2019 was a fantastic moment for the sport, and it is incredible to see the levels of support that we enjoy in the country continuing to grow year-on-year.”
Domenicali also acknowledged the continued commitment of the event promoters, adding, “Shanghai is an incredible city, and the racetrack is a wonderful test for our drivers, so I am delighted that Formula 1 will continue its successful partnership with the Chinese Grand Prix for a further five years.”
Looking ahead, the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix will take place from March 21-23, marking the second round of the season. The event will feature the first F1 Sprint of the year and will also host the opening round of the F1 Academy, a new initiative aimed at supporting women in motorsport.
With the Chinese Grand Prix now secured for the next five years, it further solidifies Shanghai’s role as a key destination in the global F1 calendar, promising thrilling racing and continued engagement with fans in China and worldwide.
