Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Qualifying for the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix will take place at the Shanghai International Circuit shortly after the Sprint race as drivers switch focus back to securing pole position for Sunday’s main event.
Following the Sprint segment of the weekend, teams must quickly reset their approach as the traditional three-part qualifying session determines the starting grid for the Grand Prix. The session will also reveal which teams have learned the most about tyre and energy management during the Sprint race.
Qualifying in Shanghai is scheduled to begin at 14:00 local time on Saturday, 14 March 2026, and will run for the standard one-hour format. Drivers including George Russell, reigning champion Lando Norris, Ferrari pair Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, as well as four-time world champion Max Verstappen for Red Bull Racing, will compete for the top grid positions.
The session will be crucial in determining the competitive order heading into Sunday’s race, particularly after the Sprint race provided teams with additional data on car balance, tyre degradation, and energy management at the Shanghai circuit.
Below is the full session schedule for the 2026 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix weekend.
F1 Schedule – 2026 Chinese Grand Prix
| Session | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Free Practice 1 | Friday, 13 March | 10:30 – 11:30 |
| Sprint Qualifying | Friday, 13 March | 14:30 – 15:14 |
| Sprint Race | Saturday, 14 March | 10:00 – 11:00 |
| Qualifying | Saturday, 14 March | 14:00 – 15:00 |
| Race | Sunday, 15 March | 14:00 – 16:00 |
Qualifying results will set the grid for the main Chinese Grand Prix, which will take place on Sunday at the Shanghai International Circuit.
Read Also
FIA insists F1 must not rely on manufacturers to dictate future power unit rules amid ongoing discussions beyond 2026 regulations.
Juan Pablo Montoya defends Lando Norris after a controversial interview, warning about risks posed by media practices in Formula 1.
Max Verstappen’s potential F1 exit in 2026 could create major risks for the sport, with Damon Hill warning of significant commercial impact.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!