The 2026 Formula One Heineken Chinese Grand Prix roars into action in Shanghai today, with all threeday tickets sold out and an expected 230,000 spectators heading to the Shanghai International Circuit — a 20-year high for the iconic motor sports event.

Following Mercedes' opening-round win in Melbourne — and amid the chaos of a swath of new rule changes this season — all eyes will be focused on the East China metropolis.

With Shanghai hosting the season's opening F1 sprint round, the action runs from March 13 to 15, kicking off with practice sessions and sprint qualifying on day one.

The city has fully embraced the F1 spirit, with pre-race events like the Checkered Flag Carnival and the LEGO F1-themed metro adding to the citywide racing fervor.

All 22 elite drivers from 11 teams have arrived in the city, with many visiting local landmarks and immersing themselves in Shanghai's culture. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc explored the Jiuqu (Zigzag) Bridge in Yuyuan Garden and visited the Huxinting teahouse, experiencing the classical elegance of Jiangnan architecture. Meanwhile, Mercedes' George Russell posed in a neo-Chinese-style suit against the iconic Bund skyline, and Alpine's Franco Colapinto wandered through Shanghai's historic streets. These cultural excursions have become a trending topic ahead of the race.

China's first F1 driver, Zhou Guanyu, meanwhile, has been meeting with enthusiastic local fans.

On Tuesday, he appeared at the 2026 Checkered Flag Carnival in Xuhui's West Bund, hosting a meet-and-greet that drew hundreds of people from across the country. An exclusive exhibition dedicated to Zhou was unveiled to showcase his journey from junior karting to F1, featuring several unreleased photos. As a reserve driver for the Cadillac F1 Team, Zhou is the most prominent local figure at this year's Shanghai Grand Prix.

Racing-themed elements adorn every corner of the city. In early March, the Shanghai Metro debuted a LEGO F1 theme on Line 11, featuring racing designs, LEGO driver figurines and iconic race moments, quickly becoming a must-see attraction.

The flagship pre-race event, the Checkered Flag Carnival, opened on Sunday.

It connects four key venues — Xuhui West Bund, Jiading Shanghai International Circuit, Hongkou North Bund, and Baoshan Riverside — and runs through March 15.

Each venue offers unique highlights, including race screenings, themed car shows and riverside go-karting experiences.

"We hope these supporting events will broaden and deepen public participation while vividly showcasing our city's image and creative vitality," said Jiang Yunying, general manager of Shanghai Juce Culture and Media. She noted that last year's event attracted over 279,000 participants across just two venues.

Julia Janiak, a visitor from Poland, said after experiencing the Xuhui main venue: "It's my first time experiencing an event like this. It's massive with numerous activities, games and opportunities to see beautiful cars. There's a good chance we'll watch more F1 races after experiencing the carnival."

In preparation for the Grand Prix, the Shanghai International Circuit has undertaken numerous upgrades, enhancing both spectator facilities and services. The newly built Grandstand E, with a capacity of 5,000 spectators, overlooks Turns 11-13 and offers free shuttle buses for spectators.

ALSO READ: A driving force

The T16 CLUB Sprint Club beside the main straight has also been upgraded, featuring dual indoor and outdoor viewing areas with catering services, plus new viewing platforms at both ends of the spectator corridor to further elevate the fan experience.

Zhang Weiyao, deputy general manager of Shanghai Juss Sports Development Group, revealed that 74 percent of spectators are from outside Shanghai, with 14 percent of those being international visitors — a three percent year-on-year increase. Additionally, high-end hotels near the Jiading circuit have reached 90 percent capacity.

The Shanghai race will also feature the season's first F1 Academy, with Chinese driver Shi Wei again receiving a wildcard entry. At last year's race, she finished 14th in the second round. Shi is the second Chinese driver to compete at F1 level after Zhou, offering even more excitement for local fans and further raising expectations for Chinese motor sports.

"F1 is a ruthless sport — there is plenty of young talent every year, and time is limited for everyone," said Zhou ahead of the weekends racing action. "But I will do my best to fulfill my duties (with Cadillac), and I hope to fight my way back onto the grid."

Zheng Zheng and Li Junfeng contributed to this story.