2024 Chinese GP: records, key F1 stats and facts from Shanghai Circuit

The 2024 Formula 1 season is gearing up for one of its most eagerly awaited events, the Chinese Grand Prix, set against the technologically advanced and architecturally stunning backdrop of the Shanghai International Circuit. Scheduled for Sunday, April 21, this race promises to be a crucial battleground for the championship, offering 56 laps of intense action over a 5.451-kilometre circuit that challenges drivers and delights fans with its dynamic layout and unique characteristics.

Designed by the renowned circuit architect Hermann Tilke, the Shanghai International Circuit is a marvel of modern motorsport engineering, reflecting China’s ambition and technological prowess. Since its inauguration in 2004, the track has become synonymous with high-speed straights, tight corners, and technically demanding turns that test the mettle of the world’s best drivers and teams.

One of the circuit’s most notable features is its opening sequence of turns, beginning with a tight right-hander that progressively tightens into a snail-shaped curve. This complex not only challenges drivers to find the optimal line but also puts a premium on car setup and tyre management, factors that can significantly impact race performance.

The circuit’s back straight, one of the longest in Formula 1, culminates in a heavy braking zone into a sharp hairpin, offering a prime overtaking opportunity. This straight tests the engine’s power and the car’s aerodynamic efficiency, while the hairpin demands precision braking and provides a thrilling spectacle as drivers jostle for position.

Another distinctive feature is the combination of high-speed sectors and slower technical sections, requiring a balanced car setup to achieve a competitive lap time. Teams often face a strategic dilemma in optimizing their cars for either straight-line speed or cornering stability, making the setup a crucial element of the weekend’s challenge.

The Chinese Grand Prix, a staple of the Formula 1 schedule since its inception in 2004, experienced a hiatus in recent seasons as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the race is poised for a triumphant return in 2024 and beyond. Although it bears the name Shanghai International Circuit, the venue is situated some distance from the heart of the city it’s named after.

First held	2004
Laps	56
Circuit length	5.451 kilometres
Lap record	1:32.238 (2004)
Winner 2019	Lewis Hamilton
Second in 2019	Valtteri Bottas
Third in 2019	Sebastian Vettel

Winner 2019	Lewis Hamilton
Winner 2018	Daniel Ricciardo
Winner 2017	Lewis Hamilton
Winner 2016	Nico Rosberg
Winner 2015	Lewis Hamilton

Lewis Hamilton stands as the most triumphant driver in the history of the Chinese Grand Prix, securing victory six times. Nico Rosberg has claimed the top podium spot twice, while Fernando Alonso has also emerged victorious on two occasions.

Mercedes has been the dominant force at the Chinese Grand Prix in recent times, achieving a total of six wins at the circuit. Ferrari trails closely with four victories, McLaren has celebrated three wins, and Red Bull has achieved two.

The 2019 Chinese Grand Prix
The 2019 iteration was the last time the Chinese Grand Prix took place, as the event was subsequently canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic and did not feature on the 2022 calendar for the same reasons.

In the last race, held in 2019, Mercedes showcased their dominance by securing their third consecutive one-two finish of that season. Lewis Hamilton overtook his teammate Valtteri Bottas, who had initially claimed pole position, at the race’s onset.

Sebastian Vettel secured a third-place finish, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc completed the top five. Pierre Gasly achieved his career’s first fastest lap during the race.