The Chinese GP returns to the 2024 calendar

After a hiatus forced by the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese GP is set to make a return. From 2004 to 2019, the Chinese Grand Prix captivated audiences with its thrilling races and stunning setting at the Shanghai International Circuit in Jiading, Shanghai. Designed by the acclaimed Hermann Tilke and featuring a track layout renowned for its technical challenges, including the notorious Turn 1 and 2 combination, this circuit stands as a testament to modern engineering and innovation in motorsport.

Shanghai International Circuit

For many new Formula One fans, especially those who jumped on the bandwagon after watching the popular Netflix series "Drive to Survive," the Chinese Grand Prix holds an air of mystery. While seasoned enthusiasts may regale stories of past races at the Shanghai International Circuit, newer fans have yet to witness the thrill of Formula One cars tearing through its challenging corners and lightning-fast straights.

The Chinese Grand Prix has had a tumultuous history since its inception. In the early 1990s, the Chinese government expressed interest in hosting an F1 race, leading to the construction of the Zhuhai International Circuit in 1996. However, the track failed to meet FIA standards, resulting in the cancellation of the planned race in 1999. It wasn't until 2004 that Formula One finally made its debut in China at the newly built Shanghai International Circuit. Since then, the race has seen its fair share of ups and downs, with contracts being negotiated and extended amidst financial challenges. Despite setbacks, the Chinese Grand Prix has remained a staple on the Formula One calendar, captivating audiences with its blend of speed, strategy, and spectacle.