Shanghai International Circuit

Introduction

Unveiled in 2004, the Shanghai International Circuit is a testament to modern motorsport architecture, designed by the renowned Hermann Tilke. Located in the Jiading District of Shanghai, this state-of-the-art facility was constructed at considerable expense, reportedly on reclaimed swampland requiring deep foundations. Its layout is visually unique, deliberately shaped to resemble the Chinese character 'shang' (上), meaning 'above' or 'to ascend'. The track is characterized by its demanding technical sections and high-speed straights. Key features include the iconic Turns 1 and 2 complex, a perpetually tightening radius corner that puts immense stress on tyres, and one of the longest straights in F1 (between Turns 13 and 14) leading into a crucial overtaking point at the hairpin. The circuit demands excellent car balance and precise driver input, particularly through the challenging middle sector and the banked final corners leading onto the pit straight. It served as the home of the Chinese Grand Prix until a pandemic-induced hiatus, making a welcome return to the F1 calendar in 2024.