“Formula 1 Returns to China for the 2025 Season with Exciting Changes”

Formula 1 fans around the world are buzzing with excitement as the sport makes its long-awaited return to China for the first time since 2019. The Shanghai International Circuit is set to host the fifth round of the 2025 Formula 1 season, marking a significant moment for the sport after a four-year absence due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Adding to the anticipation, China will also host the first of this season’s six Sprint weekends, with teams and drivers facing a unique challenge of just one 60-minute practice session before the competitive action kicks off on Friday. The new running order for Sprint weekends will see Sprint Qualifying take place on Friday, followed by the 100-kilometre Sprint contest on Saturday, leading up to the main event, Sunday’s Grand Prix.

One of the most exciting aspects of the Chinese Grand Prix will be the homecoming of F1’s first Chinese driver, Zhou Guanyu, who will have the opportunity to compete in front of his home crowd for the first time. Meanwhile, reigning champion Max Verstappen will be looking to maintain his momentum after a dominant victory in Japan, as he aims for a fourth successive drivers’ title.

With Ferrari showing strong form in Australia, Mercedes will be eager to close the gap to the frontrunners, especially as Lewis Hamilton looks to make his mark in his final season with the team before his move to Ferrari. The stage is set for an action-packed weekend in Shanghai, with fans eagerly awaiting the return of the Chinese Grand Prix on April 19-21. Don’t miss a moment of the excitement, as you can watch every session live on Sky Sports F1 and stream all the F1 action with a NOW Sports Month Membership.