Shanghai revved up for sell-out GP

"The new asphalt will provide excellent grip, and I'm confident the drivers will be pleased with its smoothness. I'm eagerly awaiting this year's qualifying sessions to see if lap times can achieve a breakthrough," noted F1 commentator Pan Yongyong.

Upgrades have also been made to spectator stands and VIP viewing areas.

The B stand, with its views of the pit exit, main straight and Turn 1, will be open to the public for the first time at this year's Chinese Grand Prix.

Additionally, the former grassy area near Turn 16 has been transformed into the T16 Sprint Club. Located near the main straight's starting point, this new viewing area offers spectators a close-up view of cars sprinting past the final corner. It also provides a glimpse of the pit lane for the F1 Academy.

Furthermore, this year's Checkered Flag Carnival introduces an inaugural dual-venue concept, with festivities held not only at the race venue, but also simultaneously at the International Cruise Terminal in Hongkou district.

"We're bringing F1 to downtown Shanghai," said Xia Qing, deputy general manager of Shanghai Jiushi Culture and Media Co Ltd. "This dual-location approach extends the racing atmosphere beyond the traditional circuit boundaries, making it more accessible to urban residents, while maintaining the authentic racing experience in Jiading."

heqi@chinadaily.com.cn