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The Chinese Grand Prix is one of the most unique and exciting races on the Formula 1 calendar. Hosted at the Shanghai International Circuit, this event has seen legendary battles, unexpected winners, and historic moments. Here are five fascinating facts about the race:
1. Built on Marshland
The Shanghai International Circuit, which hosts the Chinese Grand Prix, was built on a marshland in the Jiading District of Shanghai. Engineers had to reinforce the ground with millions of concrete pillars to ensure the track remained stable. The design was inspired by the Chinese character "上" (shang), meaning "above" or "ascend," which represents Shanghai itself.
2. Michael Schumacher Holds the Lap Record
Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher set the fastest lap ever recorded at the Shanghai circuit. In the inaugural 2004 Chinese Grand Prix, the seven-time world champion clocked an incredible 1:32.238. Despite many technological advancements in modern F1 cars, his record remains untouched, proving just how fast Schumacher was during his prime.
3. Lewis Hamilton Is the King of Shanghai
Among all the drivers who have competed in the Chinese Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has been the most dominant. The British driver has won the race six times (2008, 2011, 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2019), more than any other driver in history. His ability to adapt to different conditions and execute perfect race strategies at this circuit has made him the most successful driver in Shanghai.
4. The Race Was Canceled for Four Years
Between 2020 and 2023, the Chinese Grand Prix was absent from the F1 calendar due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was one of the longest breaks any Grand Prix had taken in modern Formula 1 history. The race finally returned in 2024, with Max Verstappen taking the victory in its much-anticipated comeback.
5. The Shanghai Circuit Has One of the Longest Straights in F1
Shanghai International Circuit is known for its 1.2-kilometer back straight, one of the longest on the Formula 1 calendar. This stretch of track allows drivers to hit speeds of over 340 km/h (211 mph) before braking hard into Turn 14, a tight right-hand corner. This section has produced some of the most thrilling overtakes in F1 history, with drivers using DRS (Drag Reduction System) to gain an edge.
Chinese Grand Prix: Past Winners
The Chinese Grand Prix has produced a variety of winners, from legendary champions to surprise victors. Here’s a look at past winners:
- 2004: Rubens Barrichello
- 2005: Fernando Alonso
- 2006: Michael Schumacher
- 2007: Kimi Räikkönen
- 2008: Lewis Hamilton
- 2009: Sebastian Vettel
- 2010: Jenson Button
- 2011: Lewis Hamilton
- 2012: Nico Rosberg
- 2013: Fernando Alonso
- 2014: Lewis Hamilton
- 2015: Lewis Hamilton
- 2016: Nico Rosberg
- 2017: Lewis Hamilton
- 2018: Daniel Ricciardo
- 2019: Lewis Hamilton
- 2020-2023: No race due to COVID-19
- 2024: Max Verstappen
How to Watch the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix
Formula 1 fans can tune in to the Chinese Grand Prix through various broadcasters depending on their region:
- UK: Sky Sports F1, NowTV
- USA: ESPN, fuboTV, F1 TV
- India: Star Sports, JioCinema
- Australia: Fox Sports, Kayo Sports
With the Chinese Grand Prix returning as the first Sprint Race of 2025, fans can expect high-speed action and intense battles on one of F1’s most challenging tracks.
