It is understood that the venue, which has hosted Chinese F1 events since 2004, is unable to maintain its track certification due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The previous license was valid for three years but expired at the end of 2019, shortly before the global health crisis prevented FIA representatives from traveling to complete inspections.

But track manager Juss Sports is now reporting that remedial and maintenance work has been carried out around the track since last year.

Blemishes on the track surface were repaired, tire walls were partially repaired, the underground link tunnel was repainted, grandstand seating was refurbished and the outfield area was improved.

This work follows an assessment by the China Automobile and Motorcycle Sports Federation (CAMF) in August 2022.

The repair work restored Shanghai to another three-year FIA Class 1 licence, the only class that allows the circuit to host F1 races and tests.

Therefore, the track is currently the only track in China that can host a grand prix.

Pierre Gasly, Red Bull Racing RB15

Photography: Zak Mauger / motorsport pictures

The Chinese Grand Prix is ​​included in the 2023 F1 calendar on April 16 to make up the 24-round schedule.

However, as widely expected, the four-week gap between the Australia and Azerbaijan games was canceled as parts of the country still faced lockdown.

If the F1 round goes ahead as planned in 2024, FIA inspectors will return to the track a month before the event for final inspections.

Local organizers have agreed a deal with F1 until 2025 after extending the contract at the end of 2021. The Grand Prix has not been held since 2019 – the 1,000th World Championship.

Should the Chinese Grand Prix be sanctioned for 2024, local race promoters are working hard to hold celebrations to mark the 20th anniversary of the country’s first F1 race.