Shanghai International Circuit
Shanghai, China
Race Date
March 15, 2026
Track Length
5.451km
Turns
16
DRS Zones
2
Race Laps
56
Lap Record
1:32.238
Michael Schumacher (2004)
Elevation
8m
The Shanghai International Circuit features a distinctive design with a long back straight and the challenging multi-apex Turn 1-2-3 complex. The track's sweeping curves and heavy braking zones provide varied overtaking opportunities. High tire degradation in the technical middle sector often creates strategic intrigue.
Shanghai joined the F1 calendar in 2004 as part of China's push into global motorsport. The circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke with a shape inspired by the Chinese character 'shàng' (上), meaning 'above' or 'ascend.' After a four-year COVID absence, the race returned in 2024 to enthusiastic crowds.
F1 returned to China after a four-year pandemic hiatus, hosting the first Sprint weekend at the circuit. Max Verstappen won both events.
Championship leader Lewis Hamilton slid into a gravel trap while entering the pits on worn tires, handing the title initiative to Kimi Räikkönen.
The milestone 1000th Formula 1 World Championship race was held at Shanghai, won by Lewis Hamilton with a Mercedes 1-2.
| Year | Driver |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Andrea Kimi Antonelli |
| 2025 | Oscar Piastri |
| 2024 | Max Verstappen |
| 2019 | Lewis Hamilton |
| 2018 | Daniel Ricciardo |
| 2017 | Lewis Hamilton |
| 2016 | Nico Rosberg |
| 2015 | Lewis Hamilton |
| 2014 | Lewis Hamilton |
| 2013 | Fernando Alonso |
| 2012 | Nico Rosberg |
| 2011 | Lewis Hamilton |
| 2010 | Jenson Button |
| 2009 | Sebastian Vettel |
| 2008 | Lewis Hamilton |
| 2007 | Kimi Räikkönen |
| 2006 | Michael Schumacher |
| 2005 | Fernando Alonso |
| 2004 | Rubens Barrichello |