SUMMARY
- Red Bull and Mercedes' contrasting trajectories since 2019 China Grand Prix.
- Shanghai Circuit's significant transformations demand adaptability.
Formula 1 is all set to make a comeback in Shanghai this weekend, but a dramatically different landscape awaits after a four-year break. However, the sport is visibly different from the one that took place in 2019. The driver pool has undergone a generational shift. Australia, for instance, now boasts a rising star in Oscar Piastri. On the other hand, older drivers like Daniel Ricciardo and Sergio Perez find themselves in tough spots.
Now, with the drivers’ and constructors’ championships firmly in hand, Red Bull is on a winning spree. This new wave is led by Max Verstappen. The return to Shanghai marks a pivotal moment for F1. It is yet another opportunity for Verstappen to break records set by Lewis Hamilton previously, or Australian Grand Prix winner, Carlos Sainz might jump the grid and bag a permanent spot alongside the reigning champion.
The last time #F1 raced in China… pic.twitter.com/H3zJv42F8e
— Motorsport.com (@Motorsport) April 13, 2024
Yet, the alterations extend beyond this since the 2019 Chinese Grand Prix. Here is a rundown of significant shifts since the last race in Shanghai:
A shift in fortunes: Red Bull and Mercedes in different trajectories
The return of Formula 1 to Shanghai ignites a wave of nostalgia, and memories from 2019, the last time the sport graced this iconic circuit. Back then, Mercedes’ reign over the sport was an undisputed fact. Their comfortable 1-2 finish with Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas in China marked a staggering third consecutive race where they secured the top two spots, solidifying their dominance.
Nonetheless, 2019 was a turning point. When Bottas replaced Nico Rosberg as Hamilton’s teammate after the former announced his retirement, there were fewer conflicts among Mercedes drivers. Their road to victory in China was made simpler by a strong vehicle produced by Silver Arrows and an absence of internal competition.
The most recent Chinese GP podium in 2019 🏆
Who will make up the top 3 this time? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/0sIDJ3y8aj
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) April 17, 2024
Meanwhile, Red Bull, then sporting Aston Martin sponsorship, found themselves at a tough spot. Years of frustration with Renault engines had prompted them to switch to Honda that very season. However, in the latest race in China, Verstappen is leading the grid with the maximum points with Sergio Perez right behind. The Milton Keynes-based team has managed to turn around the 1-2 of Mercedes in 2019 in their favor this time.
Transformations at the Chinese Grand Prix circuit
This weekend, the sound of F1 engines roars back into Shanghai, but the circuit that is waiting for the drivers is not the same one they left behind in 2019. Completed extensive resurfacing was required to pass a recent safety check (re-homologation). This is a telling sign that the circuit is particularly difficult: given that it is situated on wetlands, the ground is always shifting.
Beyond the surface, the Shanghai International Circuit presents a specific tire wear pattern. The front tires, particularly on the left side, take a significant beating due to the design of the track. The introduction of Sprint races also poses as a challenge for the drivers. The shorter timeframe will test the adaptability and ability of drivers and the teams to analyze limited data to optimize their cars for the renewed Shanghai circuit.
Evolving dynamics in car performance and racing in Formula 1
A significant technical revolution has swept through F1, replacing the dominant cars of that era. There have been significant changes in aerodynamics with the introduction of ground-effect cars. This complete overhaul throws a fresh set of challenges at both teams and drivers, demanding adaptation and technical improvements in a new racing machine.
F1 returns to Shanghai after a 5 year break and the second generation of ground effect cars will be racing here for the first time. How difficult will it be getting to grips with a circuit again, when there is only one free practice session?
loverna: Having a Sprint weekend in.. pic.twitter.com/pWQlZDcUZJ
— Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) April 17, 2024
The 2019 Chinese Grand Prix served as a stark reminder of the struggles that the sport was going through. Despite the introduction of the ground-effect cars, the anticipated improvements in close racing have not fully materialized. The return to Shanghai offers a crucial test for the new era. The ground-effect cars, with their increased downforce, might finally deliver what Formula 1 needs.