Welcome to the China F1 24 Track Guide!
Master the challenges of the Shanghai International Circuit with this in-depth sector-by-sector breakdown, complete with corner-by-corner tips, historical benchmarks, and essential car setup advice. Known for its mix of high-speed straights and technical sections, the circuit offers a unique test of skill and precision. Whether you’re an experienced sim racer or tackling this circuit for the first time, this guide will help you excel at the China Grand Prix.
Circuit Overview
- Location: Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai, China
- Length: 5.451 km (3.387 miles)
- Corners: 16
- DRS Zones: 2
- Layout: A modern, wide circuit with a mix of long straights and tight corners, offering plenty of overtaking opportunities.
- Surface: Smooth, high-grip tarmac that provides good traction, though the track can become slippery in colder conditions.
- Unique Feature: The circuit is known for its long back straight, the iconic hairpin at Turn 14, and a combination of high-speed corners. Its vast, open layout allows for exciting wheel-to-wheel racing, while the often unpredictable weather can add an extra challenge for teams and drivers.
Sector 1: Corners 1–5
- Turn 1:
The opening corner in China is a spiralling right-hander that tightens progressively. Brake late but smoothly, and trail-brake into the apex to maintain control. This corner sets the tone for the lap, so precision is key. - Turn 2:
Following Turn 1, the track flows into this slower right-hand corner. Stay tight to the inside, avoiding understeer as the track falls away slightly. - Turn 3:
A long left-hander that requires patience. Keep a steady throttle and gradually unwind the steering to prepare for the short straight ahead. - Turn 4:
This medium-speed left-hander is straightforward but vital for maintaining momentum into Turn 5. Use the curbs to optimize your line. - Turn 5:
A flat-out right-hand kink leading into Sector 2. Use the full width of the track to maximize your speed.
Sector 2: Corners 6-10
- Turn 6:
A sharp, low-speed hairpin. Brake heavily and aim for a late apex to maximize your exit onto the following straight. - Turns 7-8:
This is a high-speed, flowing right-left combination. Keep the car balanced through the transition and avoid aggressive inputs to maintain stability. - Turns 9-10:
A tricky double left-hander that requires precise braking and throttle control. Enter Turn 9 smoothly and prepare for a clean exit from Turn 10, this leads to turn 11 which is a great overtaking oppurtunity.
Sector 3: Corners 11-16
- Turn 11:
The first part of a technical sequence. Brake early and stay tight to the inside curb, setting yourself up for the challenging Turns 12 and 13. - Turns 12-13:
This is a long, sweeping right-hander that demands patience and throttle discipline. Gradually increase your speed as you exit onto the back straight, being smooth is critical here for maximum speed down the long back straight, (one of the longest in Formula 1) any snap of oversteer will cost you loads of lap time. - Turn 14:
At the end of the straight, this hairpin is a prime overtaking spot. Brake as late as possible without locking up, and aim for a clean, tight apex. - Turn 15:
A slight kink that leads directly into the final corner. Keep the car stable and prepare for Turn 16. - Turn 16:
The last corner at China is a medium-speed left-hander. Nail the exit to carry maximum speed onto the start/finish straight and set yourself up for another lap.
Full Qualifying Lap
Experience the full qualifying lap around the renowned China Grand Prix circuit, featuring every twist, turn, and precise maneuver needed to master this challenging track.
Previous Pole Lap Times at Shanghai Grand Prix
Here are the pole lap times for the China Grand Prix over the past five years.
- 2024 Pole Lap: Max Verstappen – 1:33.660
- 2023 Pole Lap: Not Held – Covid-19
- 2022 Pole Lap: Not Held – Covid-19
- 2021 Pole Lap: Not Held – Covid-19
- 2020 Pole Lap: Not Held – Covid-19
Personal Lap Reflection
I was thrilled with my lap in China. This iconic circuit has hosted so many memorable races over the years, making it one of my absolute favourites to race on. With its long straights and heavy braking zones, it provides fantastic overtaking opportunities that always keep the action exciting.
One of the highlights for me is the challenge of Sector 2. Its fast, flowing corners demand precision and rhythm, culminating in a heavy braking zone that tests your nerve and car control. The Turn 12/13 complex is another standout feature—a corner sequence that rewards precision and commitment. I’m pleased to say I nailed it, carrying a lot of speed onto the long back straight, which played a crucial role in securing pole position.
The cherry on top? I managed to beat Max Verstappen’s real-world pole time, which was incredibly satisfying. On top of that, the setup I used wasn’t just quick for qualifying—it was consistent and performed brilliantly over the course of a race. Overall, it was a lap to remember, and racing here remains a true highlight for me.
China F1 24 Setup
For my China F1 24 Grand Prix qualifying lap, I used a setup tailored for a 35% race distance with 100 AI difficulty. This setup provides a well-balanced foundation that you can fine-tune to match your driving style. I’ve taken a “set it and forget it” approach, ensuring you won’t need to adjust the brake bias or on-throttle differential during the race. It’s perfect if you want to focus entirely on the race without worrying about mid-session tweaks.
| Aerodynamics | Front wing | 37 |
| Rear wing | 18 | |
| Transmission | Differential on-throttle | 40% |
| Differential off-throttle | 35% | |
| Engine braking | 70% | |
| Suspension Geometry | Front camber | -3.50 |
| Rear camber | -2.20 | |
| Front toe-out | 0.00 | |
| Rear toe-in | 0.03 | |
| Suspension | Front suspension | 41 |
| Rear suspension | 3 | |
| Front anti-roll bar | 21 | |
| Rear anti-roll bar | 16 | |
| Front ride height | 27 | |
| Rear ride height | 57 | |
| Brakes | Brake pressure | 100% |
| Front brake bias | 55% | |
| Tyres | Front right tyre pressure | 27.0psi |
| Front left tyre pressure | 27.0psi | |
| Rear right tyre pressure | 24.5psi | |
| Rear left tyre pressure | 24.5psi |
Memorable Moments of the Chinese Grand Prix
- Michael Schumacher’s Final Ferrari Victory (2006):
Schumacher took his 91st and final career win in Shanghai, delivering a masterclass in tire management to outwit Fernando Alonso and the Renault team. - Hamilton’s Gravel Trap Drama (2007):
Lewis Hamilton’s hopes of sealing the championship in his rookie season were dashed when he slid into the gravel at the pit lane entry. The moment was pivotal in the title race. - Nico Rosberg’s Maiden F1 Victory (2012):
Rosberg took his first-ever Formula 1 win in 2012 with a flawless performance for Mercedes, marking the team’s return to the top step of the podium since 1955. - Valtteri Bottas Secures 1000th F1 Race Pole (2019):
The 2019 Chinese Grand Prix marked the 1000th race in Formula 1 history, with Valtteri Bottas claiming pole position in a closely fought battle with Lewis Hamilton. - Red Bull’s First F1 Win (2009):
In wet conditions, Sebastian Vettel led teammate Mark Webber to Red Bull Racing’s maiden victory. The 1-2 finish marked the team’s arrival as a major contender in F1.
Conclusion
Mastering the Shanghai International Circuit is about blending precision, speed, and adaptability. Each sector presents unique challenges, from the technical snail section to the high-speed back straight. With the right setup and practice, you’ll be on your way to competitive lap times.
Looking Ahead, Stay tuned for more track guides in our series, and don’t forget to visit my website for in-depth reviews of sim racing gear and setups that can take your performance to the next level. By refining your technique and investing in the right setup, you can dominate the virtual grid at China and beyond.
I put together this track guide using my trusty Fanatec GT DD Pro 8Nm racing wheel paired with the F1 Esports V2 rim, along with modded CSL pedals for that extra responsiveness. I race on the PS5, seated comfortably in my modified Playseat Challenge. To elevate my performance even further, I gear up with specialized gloves and boots that provide the perfect grip and feel. This setup has truly enhanced my control and precision on the track, making every racing session not just competitive, but incredibly enjoyable!
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