Exactly one month ago the FIA had given the news that the Chinese Grand Prix would have been deleted for the fourth consecutive year, due to the pandemic situation and severe restrictions. According to what was reported by RacingNews365.comHowever, the Shanghai circuit could return to the calendar this year.
For a month now, in fact, the restrictions in China have eased, with the return of the public to football and basketball matches. The promoter of the Chinese Grand Prix is therefore trying to convince the FIA to put the appointment back on the calendar on the original date of April 16th. Formula 1 had extended the contract for the Grand Prix until 2025, demonstrating interest in returning to China, so the proposal could find a favorable opinion.
Why all this pressure to get back on the calendar as soon as possible? According to RacingNews365, the contract between Formula 1 and the organizer could become void if more than three years go by without an event held. Furthermore, to cover the expenses, the organizer would have signed a contract with Zhou Guangyu, which would give part of the sponsorship money to the circuit for the Chinese GP. In fact, if it were to take place, the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix would be the first event with a Chinese driver in the race. This would certainly lead to a huge sponsorship package linked to Chinese interest in their driver. Given the absence since 2019, an inspection will probably be required to confirm the Grade 1 of the circuit, as well as a new training for local marshals.
Will he be able to return to 24 Grands Prix in 2023, or will the FIA settle for 23 events and only return to China next year? The developments of the story will not be long in coming because the season will start soon, so all that remains is to wait!
