Shanghai International Circuit – Chinese Grand Prix

The Layout

Designed by Hermann Tilke, Shanghai International Circuit measures 5.451 km in length and features 16 corners. The circuit runs in a clockwise direction and has a predominantly flat profile that provides excellent visibility for fans. Two DRS zones are positioned strategically throughout the course to facilitate overtaking opportunities. The layout emphasises high-speed cornering and strategic racing, with multiple technical sections and a challenging final sector that tests driver precision and vehicle performance.

Signature Corners

The circuit’s most distinctive feature is its long Turn 1, which demands commitment and precision from drivers and sets the tone for the lap. The multiple technical sections that follow reward car setup and driver skill, while the challenging final sector places further demands on both driver precision and vehicle performance.

History

Shanghai International Circuit opened in 2004 and has hosted the Chinese Grand Prix since that year, establishing China as a major player in international motorsport. The circuit is located in the Pudong District near the Huangpu River and represents Formula 1’s commitment to the Asian market and the sport’s global expansion. Shanghai’s status as a global financial hub has reinforced the event’s standing as a prestigious fixture on the Formula 1 calendar.

Circuit Character

Shanghai International Circuit combines modern racing infrastructure with sophisticated technology and world-class facilities. The flat layout creates racing lines that encourage competitive on-track action, and the circuit’s design emphasises both high-speed cornering and strategic racing opportunities. The venue attracts elite drivers and teams and continues to deliver competitive Formula 1 racing within Asia’s motorsport calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a lap at Shanghai?

A lap at Shanghai International Circuit measures 5.451 km. The race distance over a full grand prix is 305.066 km.

How many corners does Shanghai have?

Shanghai International Circuit has 16 corners. The layout emphasises high-speed cornering alongside multiple technical sections.

When did Shanghai first host a Formula 1 race?

Shanghai International Circuit first hosted a Formula 1 race in 2004. That inaugural event also produced the circuit’s current lap record.

What is the lap record at Shanghai?

The lap record at Shanghai International Circuit is 1:32.238, set in 2004.

In which direction does the Shanghai circuit run?

Shanghai International Circuit runs in a clockwise direction.

How many DRS zones does Shanghai have?

Shanghai International Circuit has two DRS zones, positioned strategically throughout the course to facilitate overtaking opportunities.

Who designed Shanghai International Circuit?

Shanghai International Circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke. Tilke is responsible for the circuit’s distinctive layout, which emphasises high-speed cornering and strategic racing opportunities.

Where exactly is Shanghai International Circuit located?

Shanghai International Circuit is located in the Pudong District of Shanghai, China, near the Huangpu River.

Who won the most recent Chinese Grand Prix at Shanghai?

The most recent Chinese Grand Prix at Shanghai was won by Andrea Kimi Antonelli driving for Mercedes in 2026.

Which constructors have won the Chinese Grand Prix at Shanghai in recent years?

In recent years, Mercedes, McLaren, and Red Bull have all taken victories at Shanghai. Mercedes won in 2026 and 2019, McLaren in 2025, and Red Bull in 2024 and 2018.

What makes the Shanghai circuit layout distinctive?

The circuit features a long Turn 1, multiple technical sections, and a challenging final sector. The predominantly flat layout provides excellent visibility for fans while creating racing lines that encourage competitive on-track action.

What is the full name of the circuit that hosts the Chinese Grand Prix?

The full name of the circuit is Shanghai International Circuit. It is located in Shanghai, China, and has hosted the Chinese Grand Prix since 2004.