Chinese Grand Prix F1 Travel Guide
Plan
Your
Chinese
Grand Prix
Four years after the Chinese GP became the first F1 race cancelled due to COVID-19, F1 made a welcome return to Shanghai in 2024.
That absence aside, the circuit has been welcoming F1 fans since 2004. Designed by the renowned architect Herman Tilke, the circuit was one of the first to be built from scratch, embodying Tilke’s signature style that has since become a staple in modern F1 circuit design.
While the Shanghai International Circuit initially garnered a reputation for hosting predictable races, this perception has dramatically shifted in the turbo-hybrid era. Recent races have showcased the circuit’s potential for thrilling, unpredictable competition. Such as in 2018, when Daniel Ricciardo executed a series of daring overtakes to secure victory and the 1000th World Championship the following year, which was marked by numerous on-track battles.
From a spectator’s perspective, the Shanghai International Circuit presents a mixed bag. The atmosphere sometimes feels subdued, lacking the electrifying energy that characterizes other Grand Prix venues.
However, the circuit makes up for these shortcomings with its exceptional viewing opportunities. This modern facility has been designed from the ground up to give F1 fans a visual feast that few other circuits can. From the upper tiers of the main grandstand, spectators can enjoy a near-panoramic view of the entire track. Even the frequent hazy skies of Shanghai can’t diminish this impressive spectacle.
Bustling Shanghai is often too busy to notice a Grand Prix taking place in its suburbs, and the race weekend revelry doesn’t envelop the city like in some other F1 host cities. Nonetheless, its unique blend of old and new provides an intriguing and awe-inspiring setting for visitors to explore during their stay.
A Capitalist on Every Street Corner
Though still communist, China embraced free market economics in the 1980s and nowadays you’ll find an eager capitalist on every street corner in Shanghai.
The circuit is no exception and should you get frustrated by the venue’s usually dismal collection of food and drink outlets you might find what you’re looking for through the circuit’s perimeter fence.
Hawkers gather to flog bottles of water, corn on the cob, kebab skewers and even cans of Tsingtao beer at their captive market. They are about double the price you’d pay elsewhere in the city but still very reasonable prices for a Grand Prix.
Essentials
Shanghainese (though Manderin is widely understood)
Yuan ¥ (CNY)
UTC+8
220V, 50Hz (US Type A, European Type C and Australian Type I plugs)
Springtime in Shanghai has changeable weather. One moment you might be comfortable in your shorts and t-shirt and the next you’ll be digging out a fleece to stay warm in the grandstand.
About Me
I’m Danny, an incurable Formula 1 fan for over 35 years and founder of The F1 Spectator. My aim is to inform and inspire, arming you with helpful tips and advice for your next F1 trip.
