Formula 1 Heineken Chinese Grand Prix 2026: Schedule, How to Watch & More

The 2026 Formula 1 World Championship continues with the highly anticipated Chinese Grand Prix, taking place shortly after the thrilling Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the event, including the full schedule, viewing options, and key details about the Shanghai International Circuit.

Basic Details of the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix

• Circuit Length: 5.41 km
• Number of Laps: 56
• Race Distance: 305.066 km
• Fastest Lap Time: 1:32.238 (Michael Schumacher, 2004)
• First Chinese GP: 2004

Full Schedule: Practice, Qualifying & Race Start

Practice Session 1

• Date: March 12, 2026 (US Viewers), March 13, 2026 (CST / Local Track Time)
• Local Time: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM CST
• Time for US Viewers: 11:30 PM – 12:30 AM ET / 8:30 – 11:30 PM PT

Sprint Qualifying

• Date: March 13, 2026
• Local Time: 3:30 – 4:14 PM CST
• Time for US Viewers: 3:30 – 4:14 AM ET / 2:30 – 3:14 AM CT / 12:30 – 1:14 AM PT

Sprint Race

• Date: March 13, 2026 (US Viewers), March 14, 2026 (CST)
• Local Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CST
• Time for US Viewers: 11:00 PM – 12:00 AM ET / 10:00 – 11:00 PM CT / 8:00 – 11:00 PM PT

Qualifying

• Date: March 14, 2026
• Local Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM CST
• Time for US Viewers: 3:00 – 4:00 AM ET / 2:00 – 3:00 AM CT / 12:00 – 3:00 AM PT

Race Start – 2026 F1 Chinese Grand Prix

• Date: March 15, 2026
• Local Time: 3:00 PM CST
• Time for US Viewers: 3:00 AM ET / 2:00 AM CT / 12:00 AM PT

How to Watch the 2026 F1 Chinese Grand Prix

For US-based viewers, Apple TV will offer a dedicated F1 channel for the 2026 season. The official Formula 1 website will also provide streaming options for all Grand Prix races.

Fans can find highlights from practice, the sprint race, and the Chinese Grand Prix race on the official Formula 1 social media channels and YouTube account after the event concludes.