If you are an F1 fan, you will not want to miss the Shanghai GP. It is one of the most exciting and challenging races on the calendar. Held at the Shanghai International Circuit, the race showcases the best of F1 driving talent, technology and spectacle.
The Chinese Grand Prix was first held in 2004, as part of the prestigious Formula One World Championship. The race was a long-term ambition by the Chinese government. They wanted to host an F1 event, as early as the 1990s.
The Shanghai International Circuit is a 5.451 km (3.387 miles) track. It features one of the trickiest corner combinations on the F1 calendar. This compares to that of Istanbul Park’s turn 8, also designed by Hermann Tilke.
Index Of Article
- When is the Shanghai GP
- The History of The Shanghai GP
- What to Expect from the Shanghai GP Track Layout
- Where to Watch the Shanghai GP
- Shanghai GP Entrance Tickets
- How to Get to the Shanghai GP
- Accommodation Options for the Shanghai Grand Prix
- Other Activities to Enjoy in Shanghai
When is the Shanghai GP
The Shanghai GP is being held during the weekend of the 19th to 21st April 2024.
When the itinerary is published this will be immediately printed here.
The History of The Shanghai GP
The Shanghai GP was first held in 2004, as part of the prestigious Formula One World Championship. The race was the result of a long-term ambition by the Chinese government to host an F1 event. There planning started in the early 1990s.
After several attempts to build a suitable circuit in different locations, the Shanghai International Circuit was completed in 2004. It cost US$ 240 million. The circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke, a renowned F1 track architect. He also created other famous circuits such as Sepang, Bahrain and Istanbul.
Rubens Barrichello won the first Chinese Race
Ferrari’s Rubens Barrichello won the first Chinese Grand Prix. He beat his teammate and seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher by 1.035 seconds.
The following year, the race hosted the final round of the 2005 season. Fernando Alonso clinched his first world title and Renault secured the constructor’s championship. In 2006, Schumacher claimed his last victory in F1 at the Chinese Grand Prix, beating Alonso by 3.121 seconds.
Since then, the Shanghai GP has seen many memorable moments and thrilling battles
- Lewis Hamilton’s first win for Mercedes in 2013
- Daniel Ricciardo’s surprise victory for Red Bull in 2018.
- Valtteri Bottas’ pole position and second place finish for Mercedes in 2019.
Hamilton has dominated the race. He ghas won six times in Shanghai, more than any other driver.
The Shanghai GP was scheduled to return in 2020 after a one-year hiatus due to calendar changes. It was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The race was also cancelled in 2021 and 2022 for the same reason.
In July 2023, it was announced that the Chinese Grand Prix would return in 2024. It now forms part for a record-breaking 24-race season. The race will take place from April 19 to 21, 2024, at the Shanghai International Circuit.
What to Expect from the Shanghai GP Track Layout
The Shanghai International Circuit is a 5.451 km (3.387 miles) track. It features one of the trickiest corner combinations on the F1 calendar.
It compares to that of Istanbul Park’s turn 8, also designed by Tilke. The track has a distinctive shape that resembles the Chinese character shang (上), meaning “up” or “above”, as in Shanghai.
The Shanghai GP track consists of 16 corners, with a mix of high-speed straights, tight hairpins and sweeping bends. The most challenging part of the track is turn 1 and 2.
It is a very demanding 270-degree right-handed corner combination that requires considerable speed and skill from the drivers.
The corner has a significant radius increase as it progresses. This forced the drivers to brake hard and change direction multiple times.
Another notable feature of the track is the long back straight between turn 13 and 14. It is over 1 km long and allows for high speeds and overtaking opportunities. The straight ends with a heavy braking zone into turn 14. This is a slow left-hander that leads into turn 15 and 16, a fast right-left chicane that completes the lap.
The track is also known for its variable weather conditions. It ranges from sunny and dry to wet and windy. This adds another layer of complexity and unpredictability to the race strategy and performance of the cars and drivers.
Follow the link for a Detailed turn by turn description of the Chinese GP track – link
Where to Watch the Shanghai GP
Each grandstand provides a unique vantage point to witness the high-speed action, but they vary in terms of views, facilities, and overall experience. Lets take a closer look at each grandstand at the Shanghai GP, highlighting their pros and cons, and offer an opinion on the best grandstand for an unforgettable race day experience.
Main Grandstand
The Main Grandstand is located opposite the pit lane, offering an unparalleled view of the start/finish straight and the pit activity. You can witness the thrilling race starts, pit stops, and post-race podium celebrations.
The grandstand provides excellent facilities, including food and beverage options, restrooms, and easy access to other areas of the circuit
Main Grandstand Cons
Due to its popularity, the Main Grandstand can be crowded, especially during peak race moments. It may be challenging to catch a clear view of the action in certain sections of the track. This is especially true of the middle and towards the end of the straight.
Grandstand A
Positioned at the end of the start/finish straight, Grandstand A offers a fantastic view of the cars approaching the first corner and the high-speed action at Turn 1.
You can witness intense braking maneuvers and potential overtaking opportunities.
This grandstand also provides easy access to facilities and amenities, making it a convenient choice.
Grandstand A Cons
As the cars pass by quickly, the viewing time in Grandstand A may be relatively short. The view is limited to the start/finish straight and the first corner, so you may miss out on seeing other sections of the track.
Grandstand H
Located near the hairpin Turn 14, Grandstand H provides an exciting view of the cars navigating a tight corner. You can witness intense overtaking maneuvers and the drivers’ skill in negotiating the challenging hairpin.
This grandstand offers good facilities and a decent view of the main straight as well.
Grandstand H Cons
Grandstand H is positioned farther away from the start/finish straight, limiting the view of the initial stages of the race and the pit lane action.
The visibility of other sections of the track may be restricted.
Grandstand K
Situated between Turns 11 and 12, Grandstand K allows spectators to witness the thrilling action as the cars approach a late braking zone and navigate through a chicane.
You can experience the cars’ agility as they maneuver through these technical sections. This grandstand offers decent facilities and a view of the start/finish straight as well.
Grandstand K Cons
The view from Grandstand K is limited to Turns 11 and 12, so you may miss out on the action happening in other parts of the track. It is positioned farther away from the main straight and the pit lane.
Grandstand N
Positioned near Turns 1 and 2, Grandstand N provides an excellent view of the hairpin at Turn 1 and the subsequent double apex at Turn 2.
You can witness the cars’ acceleration from the start/finish straight and their quick direction changes through this challenging section. Facilities and amenities in this grandstand are generally satisfactory.
Grandstand N Cons
Grandstand N is farther away from the main straight, so the view of the start and finish of the race may be limited. The view is restricted to Turns 1 and 2, with limited visibility of other parts of the track.
My recommendation!
While every grandstand offers its unique vantage point, the Main Grandstand stands out as the top choice for an extraordinary race day experience.
Its prime location opposite the pit lane provides an exceptional view of the start/finish straight and the pit activity.
Witnessing the race starts, pit stops, and podium celebrations adds to the overall excitement. Despite potential crowding, the Main Grandstand’s superior facilities and easy access to other areas make it the go-to choice for an unforgettable Shanghai GP experience.
Shanghai GP Entrance Tickets
Are you interested in buying tickets for the Shanghai GP?
If so, you have several options to choose from, depending on your budget and preference.
You can buy tickets online from the official F1.Com website or from other authorized retailers. You can also buy tickets from resellers or other fans but be careful of scams and frauds.
There are different types of tickets available for the Shanghai GP, such as
- General Admission
- Grandstand Seats
- Hospitality Packages
- Camping Passes
The prices vary depending on the type of ticket, the location of the seat and the day of the event.
The tickets usually go on sale several months before the Grand Prix. They tend to sell out fast, especially for popular grandstands and days. Therefore, it is advisable to book your tickets early and compare prices.
Some of the benefits of buying tickets for the Bahrain GP are:
- You can enjoy the thrill and excitement of watching live motorsport. It is one of the most iconic and historic circuits in the world.
- You can witness some of the best drivers and teams in F1 compete for glory.
- Explore the circuit and its facilities. These include the fan zone, the merchandise stalls, the food and drink outlets and the entertainment shows. Interlagos organizes these during the Grand Prix weekend, such as pit walks, autograph sessions, concerts and parties.
For the Bahrain GP, you can use this advertisement google query to find some options:
“Shanghai Grand Prix Tickets”, “Shanghai GP 2024 Tickets,” “Chinese GP 2024 F1 tickets” or “Chinese Grand Prix 2024 F1 tickets“
Don’t miss this chance to book your tickets now!
How to Get to the Shanghai GP
Getting to the Shanghai GP by Air
Shanghai is one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, and a major destination for business, tourism and culture. If you are planning to visit Shanghai, you will most likely arrive by air, as the city is well-connected to many domestic and international destinations.
There are two airports that serve Shanghai: Pudong International Airport and Hongqiao International Airport.
Pudong International Airport (PVG) is the main airport for international flights to and from Shanghai. It is also used for a smaller number of domestic flights. It is located about 30 km (19 miles) east of the city center, in Pudong District.
The airport has five runways and three passenger terminals, with a fourth terminal under construction. The airport is the hub for
- China Eastern Airlines
- Shanghai Airlines
- Air China
- China Southern Airlines
- Juneyao Airlines
- Spring Airlines.
It is also an Asia-Pacific cargo hub for FedEx, UPS and DHL.
Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) is the main airport for domestic and regional flights to and from Shanghai. It also an international port of entry for a few international flights. The airport is located about 13 km (8 miles) west of the city center, in Changning District.
It has two runways and two passenger terminals, with a third terminal planned. The airport is the hub for China Eastern Airlines, Shanghai Airlines and Spring Airlines. It is also a base for Air China and China Southern Airlines.
Getting to The Shanghai GP Circuit
The Shanghai International Circuit is located in Jiading District, about 30 km (19 miles) northwest of downtown Shanghai. There are several ways to get to the circuit from different parts of the city.
One option is to take the metro line 11 to Shanghai Circuit station. It connects directly to gate 9 of the circuit. The metro ride takes about an hour from central Shanghai and costs around RMB 6 ($0.90). However, be prepared for long queues and crowded trains during the race weekend, especially on Sunday.
Another option is to take a shuttle bus from various locations in the city. These include
- People’s Square
- Hongqiao Railway Station
- Shanghai Stadium
- Pudong International Airport.
The shuttle bus service runs from Friday to Sunday, with different schedules and prices depending on the departure point and destination. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes to an hour and costs around RMB 30 to 50 ($4.60 to $7.70) for a round trip.
A third option is to take a taxi or a private car to the circuit, which can be more convenient and comfortable, but also more expensive and time-consuming. The taxi fare from central Shanghai to the circuit is around RMB 150 to 200 ($23.00 to $31.00), depending on the traffic and route. The taxi ride takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the traffic conditions.
If you are driving your own car, you will need to buy a parking ticket in advance, which costs around RMB 100 to 200 ($15.00 to $31.00) per day, depending on the parking zone. The parking areas are located near gates 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 of the circuit.
Accommodation Options for the Shanghai Grand Prix
If you are planning to attend the Shanghai Grand Prix, you will need to find a suitable accommodation that suits your budget and preferences. In this chapter, we will introduce you to some of the best accommodation options for the Shanghai Grand Prix, from luxury hotels near the circuit to more affordable choices in the city center.
One of the most desirable places to stay for the Shanghai Grand Prix is near the circuit, which is about 30 km (19 miles) northwest of downtown Shanghai. There are several luxury hotels that offer stunning views of the track, easy access to the race action, and a range of facilities and services to make your stay memorable.
Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai
One of the most iconic hotels near the circuit is the Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Jiading, a 4-star hotel that is only 3 km (1.9 miles) from the circuit and features modern rooms, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a business lounge.
Crowne Plaza Shanghai Anting
Another excellent option near the circuit is the Crowne Plaza Shanghai Anting, an IHG hotel that is 4.9 km (3 miles) from the circuit and features spacious rooms, a golf course, a spa, an indoor pool, and several dining options.
If you prefer to stay in the city center of Shanghai, you can also find many quality hotels that are within a short drive or metro ride from the circuit. The city center offers more variety and affordability in terms of accommodation, as well as more cultural and historical attractions to explore.
The Bund
One of the most popular areas to stay in the city center is The Bund, a waterfront boulevard that offers stunning views of the skyline and the Huangpu River.
One of the best hotels on The Bund is the Hyatt on The Bund, a 5-star hotel that features elegant rooms and suites, an award-winning spa, 11 dining and lounge venues, and corporate hospitality facilities.
Another great hotel on The Bund is the Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai, a 5-star hotel that features luxurious rooms and suites, a fitness center, an indoor pool, a spa, and three restaurants.
Other Activities to Enjoy in Shanghai
Shanghai is not only a great destination for Formula One fans, but also a vibrant and fascinating city that offers a wealth of cultural, historical and modern attractions. Whether you are interested in architecture, art, cuisine, shopping or nightlife, you will find something to suit your taste in Shanghai.
In this chapter, we will introduce you to some of the other activities to enjoy in Shanghai, besides watching the thrilling race at the Shanghai International Circuit.
One of the most popular activities in Shanghai is to admire the classic skyline at the Bund, a waterfront boulevard that showcases the colonial and contemporary buildings along the Huangpu River.
You can stroll along the Bund, take a river cruise, or ride a sightseeing tunnel to enjoy the stunning views of the city. You can also visit some of the nearby attractions, such as Yuyuan Garden, a beautiful and tranquil Ming Dynasty Garden, or Nanjing Road, a bustling shopping street.
Another activity that you should not miss in Shanghai is to observe the city from above, at one of the skyscrapers that dot the skyline.
Oriental Pearl TV Tower
You can choose from several options, such as the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, a distinctive landmark that features a revolving hotel and a space module observatory;
The Shanghai Tower
The Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China and the second tallest in the world that boasts the fastest elevator and a 360-degree view; or the Jin Mao Tower, a stunning example of postmodern architecture that houses a luxury hotel and a skywalk.
If you want to experience some of the traditional and cultural aspects of Shanghai, you can also visit some of the historic sites and museums that showcase the city’s rich heritage.
Zhujiajiao Water Town
For example, you can visit Zhujiajiao Water Town, an ancient town with charming canals and bridges,
The Shanghai Museum
The Shanghai Museum, a world-class museum with a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts.
Conclusion
The Chinese Grand Prix is a spectacular event that showcases the best of F1 racing in Shanghai, one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the world. The race has a rich history of drama and excitement, as well as a challenging and unique track layout that tests the skills and strategies of the drivers and teams.
If you are planning to attend the race in 2024, make sure you book your tickets and accommodation in advance, and choose the best way to get to the circuit according to your budget and preference. You will not regret experiencing the thrill and glamour of the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai.
