The 2026 Formula 1 season continues its calendar with the Chinese Grand Prix, one of the most anticipated races at the start of the championship. After the start of the Australian Grand Prix, where George Russell and Mercedes took the victory, the teams arrive in Shanghai looking to consolidate their performance under the new technical regulations. The Shanghai International Circuit will once again host the world’s best drivers in a race that will also mark the first Sprint format weekend of the season, which means more action for the fans.
For Formula 1 fans living in the United States, especially the Latino community that follows drivers like Sergio “Checo” Perez, this Grand Prix will be one of the most interesting events on the early calendar.
Checo Perez returns to Shanghai with Cadillac
One of the focal points of the Chinese Grand Prix will be the return of Checo Perez to the Shanghai circuit, now as a Cadillac driver.
Team that recently made its debut on the Formula 1 grid.
The Mexican driver has fond memories of this track, as it was in China where he achieved his last podium with Red Bull in 2024.
However, the challenge now is different.
After finishing 16th in the Australian Grand Prix, the Mexican driver’s goal is to improve his performance.
In addition to scoring points in the championship.
A historic Formula 1 circuit
The Shanghai International Circuit is one of the most recognized tracks in the championship.
Some important facts about the circuit:
First race: 2004
Number of turns: 16
Circuit length: 5.451 km
Total race distance: 305.066 km (56 laps)
Historic fastest lap: 1:32.238 by Michael Schumacher in 2004
The circuit is characterized by long straights and technical corners that require a good tire strategy and an efficient aerodynamic setup.
Historically, pole position has been key in Shanghai.
In 11 of the 18 editions of the Chinese Grand Prix, the driver who started first ended up winning the race.
One of the most anticipated races of the start of the championship
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Norris, Russell and Mercedes in the fight
Reigning champion Lando Norris will be looking to bounce back after finishing fifth in Australia, a result that extended a curious trend:
In several recent seasons the Briton has started the championship without a podium finish in the first few races.
For his part, George Russell will try to repeat his victory after his triumph in Australia.
And he could become only the second Mercedes driver to win the first two races of a season, something only Nico Rosberg achieved in 2016.
Chinese Grand Prix schedule in the United States
Due to the time difference with Asia, the race will be held in the early morning hours for the American public.
>Practice 1
Thursday, March 12
ET: 11:30 PM – 12:30 AM
Sprint Qualifying
Friday, March 13
ET: 3:30 AM – 4:30 AM
Sprint Race
Friday, March 13
ET: 11:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Qualifying
Saturday, March 14
ET: 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
Race
Sunday, March 15
ET: 3:00 AM
In the United States, the Chinese Grand Prix can be followed on F1TV and Apple TV.
In Latin America, the broadcast is available on ESPN.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
