Chinese Grand Prix 2024 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Max Verstappen extended his championship lead with a commanding victory at the Chinese Grand Prix, marking Formula 1's return to Shanghai after a five-year absence. The reigning champion dominated the weekend, converting pole position into his fourth win of the season with a controlled performance from start to finish.

The race highlighted McLaren's emerging threat as Lando Norris secured a strong second place, demonstrating the MCL38's improved pace. Norris pushed Verstappen throughout the race, closing to within striking distance in the final stages but unable to mount a serious challenge for victory. Sergio Perez completed the podium in third for Red Bull, ensuring a solid points haul as the team maintained their constructors' championship lead.

The Shanghai circuit's long back straight and challenging high-speed corners provided a stern test of car performance, with Fernando Alonso setting the fastest lap. The result sent a clear message that while Red Bull remained the team to beat, McLaren's upgrade path was narrowing the gap - a trend that would become increasingly significant as the season progressed.