Shanghai International Circuit - Destination two for F1 2025

From 2004 to 2019 and then from 2024, Shanghai International Circuit hosted the Chinese Grand Prix. Formula One will return to the circuit in 2025 for the prestigious Chinese Grand Prix. Once again, drivers will take on the winding track of the Shanghai Audi International Circuit, racing with passion to claim inventory over the enthralling racetrack.

History of Shanghai International Circuit

In order to showcase the glorious city of Shanghai to the world, the Shanghai authorities conceived the idea of a state-of-the-art circuit, the Shanghai International Circuit. A 5.3 sq km site, located in the northwest of the city in the Jiading District was selected as the site for the circuit. Investing $450 million and getting Herman Tilke on board to design the track as well as the associated buildings, the circuit had its groundbreaking in April 2003. A total of 3,000 workers worked on the site for 18 months daily and finally on June 6th, 2004, the circuit was opened to the public.

When visitors came to the site, they were met with a vast, sprawling complex that was dominated by a pit complex and the main grandstand. The complex featured wing-like viewing platforms and had the capacity to hold 30,000 spectators alone. While the entirety of the Shanghai International Circuit can hold an audience of about 200,000. The circuit also featured unique paddock facilities, giving each team its own building. The teams’ buildings were arranged in a way that made them look like pavilions in a lake that resembled the Yu Garden of Shanghai. The circuit held its first Grand Prix in the 2004 season, which was won by driver Rubens Barrichello.

Layout of the Shanghai Audi International Circuit

Taking inspiration from the Chinese character Shang, the Shanghai International Circuit was designed in a way that mimicked it. Shang is the first character of Shanghai and means ascend of above.  The circuit features a unique and thrilling start. At the start of the race, drivers fly into the tight turns 1 and 2, once they conquer these, they turn left and go through turns 3 and 4. Turns 7 and 8 with their super high g force are loved by drivers and on-lookers alike as they provide the most epic dose of adrenaline. The circuit is also known for housing a 1.2km stretch that is regarded as the longest straights on the calendar. 

F1 2025 Chinese Grand Prix

The F1 2025 season is returning to the Shanghai International Circuit for the second round of Formula One, to observe the Chinese Grand Prix. The race will be held from 21st to 23rd March. Fans are anxiously waiting to see how the drivers will perform this year on the winding circuit, and who will come out victorious. To watch Chinese Grand Prix live stream, visit F1TV.VIP.