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Shanghai Grand Prix

Circuit architects Hermann Tilke and Peter Wahl on their design: "The 5.4 kilometre racing track is shaped like the Chinese character 'shang', which stands for 'high' or 'above'. Other symbols represented in the architecture originate from Chinese history, such as the team buildings arranged like pavilions in a lake to resemble the ancient Yu Garden in Shanghai. Here, nature and technology are carefully used to create harmony between the elements."

Facts:

Name: Shanghai International Circuit
Built: 2004
Designed by: Hermann Tilke and Peter Wahl
Cost: $240 million (USD)
Lap length: 5.451 km (3.387 mi)
Lap record: 1:32.238 (Michael Schumacher, 2004)
Total race distance: 305.066 km (189.56 mi)

The Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix has been hosted at the Shanghai International Circuit since it opened in 2004. The circuit is now set to host the F1 Chinese Grand Prix until 2018, maintaining its status as the premier motorsports event in China. The Shanghai F1 track is notable around the world for having the longest straightaway of any Formula 1 venue, with a 1,170 m (3,838 ft) straightaway, allowing the rocketship-like F1 cars to reach speeds of over 300 kph (over 185 mph). The Shanghai F1 track is also renowned for its spectator-friendly seating (though it's not for the lazy-of-leg). With a capacity of 29,000, the various seating areas and Grand Prix ticket options around the track provide in-person coverage of over 80% of the race, guaranteeing that nothing slips by the fans.

 

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