Formula 1: Chinese GP cancelled for 2023 season due to COVID-19 restrictions

(Motorsport) Formula 1 has cancelled the Chinese Grand Prix for the 2023 season. The race was expected to be held in China for the first time since 2019 as a part of their 24-race season on April 16th. However, with the country continuing its zero-Covid policy resulting in heavy restrictions and continued lockdowns, the Shanghai International Circuit will not feature a Formula 1 race in 2023. F1 are currently exploring alternate venues with one of the possible venues expected to be Portugal.

“Formula 1 can confirm, following dialogue with the promoter and relevant authorities, that the 2023 Chinese Grand Prix will not take place due to the ongoing difficulties presented by the COVID-19 situation. Formula 1 is assessing alternative options to replace the slot on the 2023 calendar and will provide an update on this in due course.”
Formula 1 in a statement

Even if they do go with 23 races, it will still be the highest number in Formula 1 history and the 2023 season will feature a night race in Vegas for the first time. The season will also feature six sprint races but the venues are yet to be confirmed. In the sprint format, the qualification takes place on Friday that determines the grid positions for Saturday’s sprint race.

The outcome of the sprint race then determines the grid position for the main race. Brazil’s Interlagos has been a consistent sprint race venue since the format was introduced in 2021 while Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, United States Grand Prix in Texas and one of Saudi Arabia or Qatar are expected to feature sprint races.

The F1 calendar for 2023

March 5: Bahrain (Sakhir)
March 19: Saudi Arabia (Jeddah)
April 2: Australia (Melbourne)
April 30: Azerbaijan (Baku)
May 7: Miami (Miami)
May 21: Emilia Romagna (Imola)
May 28: Monaco (Monaco)
June 4: Spain (Barcelona)
June 18: Canada (Montreal)
July 2: Austria (Spielberg)
July 9: Great Britain (Silverstone)
July 23: Hungary (Budapest)
July 30: Belgium (Spa-Francorchamps)
August 27: Netherlands (Zandvoort)
September 3: Italy (Monza)
September 17: Singapore (Marina Bay)
September 24: Japan (Suzuka)
October 8: Qatar (Losail)
October 22: USA (Austin)
October 29: Mexico (Mexico City)
November 5: Brazil (São Paulo)
November 18: Las Vegas
November 26: Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)