2026 F1 Chinese Grand Prix weather forecast

Teams heading to the Shanghai International Circuit can pack away their wet-weather tyres, with the Chinese Grand Prix weekend set to unfold under clear skies and settled conditions from Friday through to Sunday's race.

Friday's opening practice sessions will take place in plenty of sunshine, with temperatures climbing to around 14 degrees Celsius and only a light to moderate easterly wind to contend with.

Saturday brings marginally warmer conditions, rising to 16 degrees and even calmer winds as the sun continues to shine. 

Crucially for the sprint race and qualifying itself, dry conditions are expected to persist throughout the day, allowing teams to focus purely on performance rather than weather strategy.

Sunday's grand prix follows a similar pattern. Whilst some cloud cover is anticipated, it will pose little threat, with no rain expected. 

A moderate northeasterly wind will add a minor variable, but with temperatures holding steady at 16 degrees, track conditions should remain consistent.

The cooler temperatures, notably lower than the traditional April slot the Chinese Grand Prix has historically occupied, will present tyre management challenges. 

Getting heat into the Pirelli compounds, particularly on out-laps and restarts, will require careful attention from drivers.

For a circuit that has witnessed rain affect five of its 13 previous grands prix, the settled forecast offers a rare opportunity for uninterrupted running.