Breaking: Formula E confirm new Shanghai schedule as torrential rain threatens

Formula E and the FIA have announced a brand-new schedule for both Saturday and Sunday of this weekend's Shanghai E-Prix.

From second practice onwards on Saturday morning, all sessions have been brought forward by three hours in a bid to avoid two torrential showers.

Under the initial schedule, only the races faced a clear threat of weather-related disruption, resulting in the decision to bring everything forward.

Team principals and managers were informed of the decision ahead of first practice at the Shanghai International Circuit on Friday afternoon. Conversations did take place between the teams and the FIA prior to the decision being made, with a plan being wanted.

By moving all sessions forward on both Saturday and Sunday, the hope is that track action can take place without disruption, while also creating a greater window should undrivable conditions arise.

This means that both races will now take place at midday local time (CST) on Saturday and Sunday, which is 5am BST in the United Kingdom. 

Second practice on Saturday morning and third practice on Sunday morning will start at 6am CST (11pm BST), both sessions reduced to 30 minutes. Qualifying on both days will begin at 8am CST (1am BST).

A Formula E spokesperson said: "With adverse weather conditions forecast in Shanghai on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July, we anticipate significant impact to the current sporting schedule for Rounds 12 and 13 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship 2026 Shanghai E-Prix.

"Together with the FIA, Teams and Manufacturers, we have taken the proactive decision to amend track timings on both race days. This ensures we can maximise track sessions while prioritising the safety and experience of our fans, guests, and personnel as we look to put on the best possible racing spectacle in China.

"We thank the local organisers and authorities for their prompt and unified response to these changes."