Chinese GP

This is the start time of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix 2026

The Chinese Grand Prix made its comeback in 2024 after being absent from 2020 to 2023 due to the coronavirus. In 2026, we will once again race in China, which always provides spectacular races and has a contract until 2030.

What time does the F1 Chinese GP start?

The F1 Chinese GP is scheduled for Sunday, March 15, and is expected to begin at 07:00 GMT. The first free practice and sprint qualifying sessions take place on Friday, March 13. 

On Saturday, March 14, the Sprint and Qualifying will be held. 

The sprint will be held at 03:00 GMT, and qualifying will be at 07:00 GMT. The Chinese Grand Prix starts at 07:00 GMT on Sunday, March 15.

History of the F1 China GP

Despite China's lack of motorsport heritage, the Chinese Grand Prix has been a regular fixture on the Formula 1 calendar since 2004. No expenses were spared during the design and construction of the track. 

Located on the outskirts of Shanghai, the 5.4-kilometre Shanghai International Circuit features a blend of high-speed corners, slow kinks, and two long straights. Famous track designer Hermann Tilke created the circuit with the Chinese word "Shang" in mind, which means "to ascend".

The long straights between Turns 13 and 14 provide an ample amount of overtaking opportunities, especially with the use of DRS, which in recent years has led to some exciting racing. However, focusing on straight-line speed alone isn't enough, as the second sector features a mixture of slow and medium-speed turns, and this means that striking a balance in the car's set-up might prove tricky to master for some.

Some of the circuit's more memorable moments include Lewis Hamilton beaching his car at the entry of the pit lane in 2007, Sebastian Vettel winning Red Bull's first-ever Grand Prix in 2009, and Nico Rosberg securing his and Mercedes' first wins in 2012.

Whilst the Chinese Grand Prix is absent from the 2020-2023 F1 calendar, the event will return from 2024 onwards, with the venue having signed a contract to remain on the schedule until 2030.

Most successful F1 drivers and teams

Hamilton is the most successful driver at the Chinese Grand Prix, having won the event on six occasions. Rosberg has two wins to his name, whilst Fernando Alonso is also a double winner.

Given their dominance in recent years, Mercedes are the constructor with the most victories in China. The team have collected six wins at the track. Ferrari are just behind on four, whilst McLaren have taken three victories and Red Bull have two.