F1 Chinese Grand Prix: Full track layout for Shanghai International Circuit

Here's all you need to know about the Shanghai International Circuit hosting F1 in China.

After a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, F1 finally makes its much-anticipated return to the Shanghai International Circuit for the fifth round of the season.

READ MORE: F1 Chinese Grand Prix weather forecast - latest today from Shanghai

This track has been the stage for many memorable moments in F1 history, including Michael Schumacher's final win in 2006 and Red Bull's first ever victory with Sebastian Vettel at the helm in a rain-soaked race in 2009.

The circuit is no stranger to F1, having debuted in 2004. However, with the regulation changes and the completely new generation of F1 machinery taking to the track, racing will have a completely fresh feel.

READ MORE: F1 Explained: A beginner's guide to all the key terms and definitions

F1 Shanghai International Circuit Layout

The 5.451 km circuit features a total of 16 corners, with a mix of high-speed straights and technical corners that will test the limits of both driver and machine.

As you can see from the provided track layout, DRS (Drag Reduction System) zones are strategically placed on two key straights, which will be the scene of some thrilling overtaking manoeuvres.

Sector 1: This opening sector is known for its tight and twisty corners, demanding precise handling from the drivers.

Taking a high-speed plunge into the ever-tightening Turn 1 and Turn 2, drivers will then need to flick left for the tricky Turns 3 and 4.

Sector 2: This features a mix of medium and high-speed corners, with Turn 7 and Turn 8 being a particular highlight. These high g-force corners will put a significant strain on the driver's necks and require a perfectly balanced car setup to navigate efficiently.

Sector 3: The final sector is all about power. Drivers will be flat out through one of the longest straights on the calendar, which stretches for 1.2km, before braking hard for the tight right-hander at Turn 14.

This DRS zone is another prime overtaking spot, and the driver who exits Turn 14 well will have a significant advantage heading down the pit straight and into the left-hander of the final corner at Turn 16.

READ MORE: F1 on TV: The definitive guide to how to watch the 2024 season live

Shanghai International Circuit - Key information

Number of laps: 56
Circuit length: 5.451km
Race distance: 305.066 km
Last winner (2019): Lewis Hamilton
Lap record: 1:32.238 - Michael Schumacher (2004)

READ MORE: F1 Schedule 2024: Full calendar with all you need to know about every grand prix

Related

Adrian Newey

Why Adrian Newey is the BEST and WORST thing to happen to F1

• 3 hours ago

Miami Grand Prix

F1 Miami Grand Prix weather forecast - latest today

• Today 14:20