China secures its F1 future with new three-year deal

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Formula 1 has confirmed that it will return to Shanghai next year following new deal inked with the promoters of the China Grand Prix.

The new three-year agreement between Formula One Management and Shanghai Juss Sports Development will begin in 2018.

Shanghai was originally earmarked for April 8 on the 2018 calendar, but the race will swap dates with Bahrain and be held on April 15, making it the second round of the championship.

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“This great country has already demonstrated an overwhelming show of interest in our sport and we firmly believe there is still a great deal of unexplored potential here,” said F1 CEO Chase Carey.

“That’s why this renewed agreement is so important as part of our development strategy, especially in this part of the world.

"We and our partners in this venture want to make this Formula 1
Chinese Grand Prix even more spectacular, while bringing Chinese fans ever closer to the sport."

China first appeared on Formula 1's schedule back in 2004 and has steadily grown to become a pivotal event for the sport and its manufacturer teams for which the country represents a massive marketing asset.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.