The Chinese Grand Prix returns to the Formula 1 calendar: a historic announcement, given that it had been cancelled for several years now. The last race took place in 2019, when Lewis Hamilton triumphed in his Mercedes.
The Grand Prix was introduced to Formula 1 in 2004 and Ferrari’s Rubens Barrichello was the first winner. However, the record for most wins on the circuit belongs to Lewis Hamilton, with six victories. Following him are Fernando Alonso and Nico Rosberg, both having reached the top step of the podium twice.
Why was the Chinese GP cancelled?
The Covid-19 pandemic, which erupted at the beginning of 2020, brought the world to its knees, Formula 1 included. That year, races were mostly held in the European continent, with the exception of the last three in the Middle East.
On February 12, 2020, the FIA announced the cancellation of the Chinese Grand Prix. Scheduled for April 19, the race did not take place due to the virus originating from Wuhan and the country’s western area.
In the following two years, the world tried to return to normality, despite Covid restrictions. China, Japan, and Singapore wanted to be reinstated in the Formula 1 calendar, but to no avail. The pandemic-related issues were still too significant.
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The FIA refused to host a Grand Prix behind closed doors. With the Chinese GP cancelled again in 2023, the government took action. The ruling socialist party adopted a “zero COVID” policy to minimize the transmission of Covid-19, largely contained but not completely eliminated.
Why has the Chinese GP returned to the calendar?
Last year, Formula 1 announced the return of China, thanks to an agreement to stay on the calendar until 2025. The Covid restrictions have indeed changed. Starting from August 30, 2023, incoming passengers no longer need to undergo a molecular swab or an antigen test within 48 hours prior. Moreover, it’s no longer necessary to fill in the customs declaration.
China is currently the second-largest economic power globally, representing an important market segment for Formula 1. For this reason, the government cannot afford a new cancellation.
Source: f1ingenerale
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