China back or replaced: negotiations underway
While the Chinese Grand Prix had been canceled for this year, Shanghai could finally reclaim its spot. But just in case, other tracks could replace it.
The (ridiculous) “zero Covid” policy that prevails in China has led to the complete absence of its Grand Prix since 2020. Since then, the F1s have never been seen performing on the Shanghai track again.
Last December, the F1 announced the cancellation of the Chinese Grand Prix, still due to the health policy of the regime.
But it turns out that the Far East leg could finally regain its position as the 4th leg of the season: the health restrictions have been loosened and allow for it. The record of 23 Grand Prix could then (finally, even if opinions are mixed) be broken.
Which track is there to replace Shanghai?
If the FOM and the FIA do not allow China to rejoin the calendar, then there are other tracks available to replace it.
Lately, there has been no mention of bringing back Le Castellet. Which, on one hand, might not be a bad thing: after completely erasing the French Grand Prix from future years, Formula 1 would show hypocrisy by hastily returning to France.
Regarding the rest, Istanbul was also on track to complete the calendar. But the most credible and advanced option, without being able to officially confirm it, remains Portimao.
The Portuguese circuit had hosted Formula 1 in 2020 and 2021 before returning to the normal schedule last year. The Algarve track would then be placed as the 4th stage of the championship.
Now remains to know the winner of the showdown between Portugal and China. But nothing is set in stone yet.
