Chinese GP to remain on F1 calendar until 2030 after new deal

Formula 1 has announced the Chinese Grand Prix has signed a new deal that will see the series visit Shanghai until at least 2030.

China’s current deal is set to run out after next year’s edition, but delegates from the race inked a new deal in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix paddock that secures a five-year extension.

“Our return to China this season for the first time since 2019 was a fantastic moment for the sport, and it is incredible to see the levels of support that we enjoy in the country continuing to grow year-on-year,” said F1 CEO and president Stefano Domenicali.

“Shanghai is an incredible city, and the racetrack is a wonderful test for our drivers, so I am delighted that Formula 1 will continue its successful partnership with the Chinese Grand Prix for a further five years. I want to thank our promoter for their continued commitment and passion, and I look forward to returning to Shanghai in the new year.”

Race promoter Guo Jianfei added: “For many years, Jiushi Group and our subsidiary, Juss Sports, have always adhered to our original intention to strive for the excellence in event organization, and this renewal is a testament to that. It is excellent news for fans in China and is a perfect platform to showcase Shanghai to the world as millions tune in on TV globally.

“We fully understand that a successful Grand Prix is not only an exciting race event, but also a driving force for the whole society to develop in a more positive direction. In the future, we will continue to optimize the event experience through innovation and achieve a sustainable contribution to the society.”

China first started hosting F1 in 2004, but then faced an enforced four-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The race at the 5.45km Shanghai International Circuit on the far outskirts of the metropolis then returned for its 20th anniversary this year, with a sold-out race to celebrate the country’s first-ever F1 racer Zhou Guanyu.

Next year the Chinese Grand Prix will move forward to be the second race on the calendar on 23 March, running back-to-back with the opening Australian Grand Prix as the first sprint event of the year.

Chinese F1 fans will have to make do without Zhou next year, with the 24-year-old dropped by Sauber next year after three seasons with the Swiss team.