2020 Chinese Grand Prix - Shanghai

Latest news and info on the 2019 Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, including race information and places to stay.

Chinese Grand Prix
© XPB Images

Key figures

Date:17 -19 April 2020
Number of laps:56
Circuit length:5.451 km
Race distance:305.066 km
Lap record:1:32.238
Michael Schumacher, Ferrari, 2004

2019 Chinese Grand Prix Session Reports:

2019 Chinese Grand Prix News:

2019 Chinese Grand Prix Guide + Info:

The Shanghai International Circuit joined the F1 calendar back in 2004, and has featured at both the start and end of the season in its time so far. The track boasts one of the longest straights in F1 with a 1170-metre run to a hairpin towards the end of the lap. However, it features a number of other iconic corners, with the 270-degree Turn 1 a major test of the front left tyre and often tricky at the start of races as the corner constantly tightens. A slow hairpin at Turn 6 leads into a high-speed chicane at 7 and 8, highlighting the circuit’s mix of corners. Another long right hander at Turn 13 is almost the opposite of Turn 1 as it opens up on exit, which is crucial as it leads on to the long back straight. Viewed from above, the track resembles the Chinese character of shang (上) which means above or to ascend.

DESTINATION GUIDE

Shanghai is one of the largest cities in the world - or largest based on city proper rankings - and therefore offers a huge amount to do, although not as many iconic attractions as many other major cities, it's more a place to just get lost in. The circuit itself is located in Jiading to the north west of Shanghai, so take into account the journey times noted below before picking an area to stay.

The iconic Shanghai skyline is best viewed from the Bund, with the promenade on the west side of the river offering the best photo opportunities. There are also bars and restaurants with views of the skyline in this region, while a number of the towers in view - including Shanghai Tower and the Oriental Pearl Tower - offer spectacular views of the city on a clear day.

Nanjing Road offers a number of modern shopping options, and those in search of Shanghai’s culture should head to the old city and the City God Temple. Situated in the heart of the city, it is next to the stunning Yu Garden which dates back to the Ming Dynasty. In terms of more antique shopping options, check out Dongtai Road, which is full of antique stores and shops dedicated to all manner of items.

Being part of the city is central to Shanghai’s charm, so head west of the river to Fuxing Park to see locals getting out and about. There’s also People's Square just a few subway stops away, home to the Shanghai Museum.

WHERE TO PARTY

THE CODE 20 - SHANGHAI

The Code is synonymous to themed avant garde events taking place at top venues during the Grand Prix series around the world. One of a kind, seriously glamorous, bespoken parties that every time awe even the most spoiled globetrotters.

The Code 20 specializes in creating a unique atmosphere where drivers and socialite meet to experience a spectacular nightlife full of surprises after a hectic weekend at the track. Dazzling locations, breathtaking scenery, exclusive performances, exquisite cuisine and surprises: all wrapped up in one place for those who prefer the finest things in life and entertainment.

Past events have taken place in Shanghai, Monaco, Montreal, Austin and Abu Dhabi, where The Code 20 has had the pleasure to produce exclusive events and present unique entertainment and performances; having worked with the likes of: DJ Avicii, AKON, NELLY, DJ EROK (official DJ of Red Bull Racing F1), THE BOX NYC, Cirque Le Soir, Burlesque Queen Scarlet James, Grammy Award Winner DJ David Morales and many more.

The Code 20 events are by invitation only and table reservations. Being attended by F1 drivers, team owners, business tycoons, fashion and cinema celebrities, The Code 20 is established as the place to celebrate in style after the race.

HOW TO GET THERE

The circuit itself is located in Jiading to the north west of Shanghai, and therefore quite a trip by road when you take Shanghai’s notorious traffic jams into account. The alternatives are to stay in the Jiading area or use the metro system, with the circuit served by the Shanghai Circuit station on subway line 11. Both the metro and a taxi are likely to take around an hour from the Bund in central Shanghai.

Shanghai is served by two main international airports. The most frequently used by visitors is Pudong International Airport to the south east of the city, leaving a 70km drive needed across the city to reach the circuit. Public transport access to the city from Pudong is via the impressive Maglev train - standing for magnetic levitation - the train can hit speeds of over 400kph and will take you to Longyang Road in more central Shanghai in less than ten minutes.

The second main airport is Hongqiao International Airport to the west of central Shanghai, which offers fewer flight options but sits on two subway lines and is around a 30-minute drive to the circuit.