Formula One’s History in China 🇨🇳

Formula One’s history in China dates back to 1996, when the Chinese government announced its aspirations to host an F1 race at the newly built Zhuhai International Circuit, the first-ever commercial racetrack in China. In 1998, it was announced that the track would be included in the F1 calendar for 1999. However, in the winter, the FIA canceled the race due to the circuit not meeting its competition standards.

China didn’t give up on its dream, and in 2003, the Shanghai International Circuit project was unveiled to the world. The $450 million investment took 18 months to complete, and on September 26, 2004, Formula One cars finally took to the twisting, intricate circuit.

Rubens Barrichello, in his scarlet-red Ferrari, claimed victory in the inaugural race, finishing ahead of Jenson Button and Kimi Räikkönen. In 2005, the Chinese Grand Prix was given the honour of hosting the season finale, where Fernando Alonso triumphed, securing the Constructors' Championship for Renault just weeks after winning his first Drivers' title.

In the following years, the circuit became the backdrop for many memorable moments, including Michael Schumacher’s final F1 victory in 2006, Lewis Hamilton’s infamous pit lane blunder in 2007 that cost him the title, Sebastian Vettel delivering Red Bull’s first-ever win in 2009 under wet conditions, and Nico Rosberg securing his maiden F1 victory in 2012.

However, the circuit has faced serious financial difficulties. Despite Bernie Ecclestone’s assurances that the race would return in 2011, there were no guarantees. He attributed their struggles to poor advertising and low-ticket sales. In an effort to help, he negotiated a contract extension at a lower rate, keeping the race on the calendar until 2017. Further extensions saw the Shanghai circuit host the 1000th Formula One Grand Prix in 2019, when it was announced that China would remain on the calendar until 2025.

F1 did not return to China after 2019 due to COVID-19-related travel restrictions and logistical concerns, leading to the race's cancellation from 2020 to 2023. When racing finally returned in 2024, Chinese fans erupted with excitement, especially for home hero Zhou Guanyu, bringing back the carnival-like atmosphere that F1 thrives on.

Finally, in December 2023, Formula One announced a contract extension with China through 2030—great news for Lewis Hamilton, the most successful driver at the Shanghai circuit, with six victories to his name.

This weekend, he’ll be hoping to use all of his experience to help put the disappointment of Australia behind him as he takes on the challenge in his Ferrari.