Located in Shanghai’s Jiading District, the Shanghai International Circuit is better known for hosting the Formula One Chinese Grand Prix since 2004.
Between 2004 and 2019, F1 raced at the Shanghai circuit, but with the COVID-19 pandemic did not feature on the race calendar until its return in 2024.
Shanghai International Circuit
| First Grand Prix | 2004 Chinese Grand Prix |
| Number of Laps | 56 |
| Circuit Length | 5.451 km (3.387 miles) |
| Race Distance | 305.066 km (189.559 miles) |
| Lap Record | 1:32.238 Michael Schumacher (2004) |
Circuit
When was the Shanghai International Circuit built?
The Shanghai International Circuit was created as a means for China to exhibit the vibrant city of Shanghai to the world. The authorities chose a 5.3 sq km area in the Jiading District located northwest of the city.
A budget of $450 million was raised through a government-funded joint-venture company, and the modern track designer Herman Tilke was appointed to design the circuit and its accompanying buildings. In April and May 2003, engineers began building the track to be ready for the 2004 season.
The area was previously swampland and used as rice paddy fields, making extensive groundwork necessary to construct the circuit. Remarkably, it took 18 months and 3,000 workers to complete the circuit, showcasing an impressive feat of engineering and logistics.
Upon opening, visitors were greeted by an extensive complex featuring a dominating main grandstand and pit complex with wing-like viewing platforms that crossed the circuit on either end. The grandstand alone can hold up to 30,000 spectators, with other stands around the circuit adding up to a total capacity of 200,000. The paddock facilities were also unique, with each F1 team having its own building arranged like pavilions in a lake, replicating the ancient Yu Garden in Shanghai.
When was the first Chinese Grand Prix?
The Shanghai International Circuit was the first in China that was specifically constructed for Formula One, and it has hosted the FIA Formula One World Championship Chinese Grand Prix annually since 2004.
In 2004, the track was one of two new circuits added to the calendar alongside Bahrain. Despite speculation that these new races were added to halt the dominance of Ferrari, Michael Schumacher emerged victorious in Bahrain, and Rubens Barrichello claimed victory at the inaugural 2004 China Grand Prix.
Shanghai International Circuit lap record
The official race lap record for the current F1 Grand Prix configuration, which has existed since 2004, belongs to Michael Schumacher, who achieved a lap time of 1:32.238 during the 2004 Chinese Grand Prix for Ferrari.
