Formula 1 returns to Shanghai, China, for the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit.
Its ‘shang’ layout mixes a tightening Turn 1, high‑G sweepers and a 1.2km straight built for bold passes. With big points on offer, the race could swing both championships.
Image: Formula 1 ©
Chinese GP 2026 schedule and time
| Session | Date | Local Time | UK Time (GMT/BST) | US ET Time | Paris/Brussels Time (CET/CEST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practice 1 | Fri 13 Mar | Fri 04:30 | Fri 04:30 | Fri 00:30 | Fri 05:30 |
| Sprint Qualifying | Fri 13 Mar | Fri 08:30 | Fri 08:30 | Fri 04:30 | Fri 09:30 |
| Sprint | Sat 14 Mar | Sat 04:00 | Sat 04:00 | Sat 00:00 | Sat 05:00 |
| Qualifying | Sat 14 Mar | Sat 08:00 | Sat 08:00 | Sat 04:00 | Sat 09:00 |
| Race | Sun 15 Mar | Sun 08:00 | Sun 08:00 | Sun 04:00 | Sun 09:00 |
How to watch the 2026 Chinese GP
Coverage for the Chinese Grand Prix will be available on Apple TV, Sky Sports F1 (UK), ESPN (US), Canal+ (France), RTBF (Belgium), and F1 TV Pro for eligible regions.
Support series this weekend
Formula 2 continues its fierce championship battle, with multiple drivers vying for the title. In Formula 3, the fight for the lead remains close as rookies push hard. Other support series also feature intense racing across Shanghai’s challenging circuit.
FAQ – Chinese Grand Prix 2026
When is the Chinese Grand Prix 2026?
The Chinese Grand Prix 2026 race takes place on March 15, with practice sessions starting on March 13.
Where is the race held?
The race is held at the Shanghai International Circuit located in the Jiading District of Shanghai, China.
How long is the race?
The race covers a distance of 305.066 kilometers over 56 laps, with each lap being 5.451 kilometers long.

