Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix 2024: 4 Things to Watch Including Special Cutting Edge Trophy

• Formula 1 heads to the Shanghai International Circuit for the 2024 edition of the Chinese Grand Prix
• The race will mark F1's maiden visit to the Shanghai track since the transition to the ground effect era
• Sports Brief spotlights key things to look out for ahead of the race at the Shanghai International Circuit

Formula 1 makes its highly anticipated return to China for the first time since the historic F1000 event in 2019.

The upcoming race at the Shanghai International Circuit promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with the weekend set to deliver a series of twists, including the highly criticised Formula 1 Sprint race.

Of particular note is the introduction of a cutting-edge technology trophy, which is sure to spark significant discussion once it is presented to the podium finishers.

Against this backdrop and with the promise of wheel-to-wheel action, Sports Brief highlights the key elements to watch for in anticipation of the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix.

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Things to look out for at the 2024 Chinese Grand Prix

Cutting-edge wearable trophy

The upcoming Chinese Grand Prix will feature a unique prize: a wearable wreath in a daring departure from the traditional trophies.

This innovative design by Pininfarina pays homage to the laurel wreaths awarded to early Formula 1 winners. The trophy is equipped with sensors that light up when worn around the neck.

According to a report from Autosport.com, the wreath's circular design is inspired by the graceful movement of a dragon, with its pulsing light pattern evoking the fiery breath of a dragon awakened.

Daniel Ricciardo's performance

Another pivotal thing to monitor is the performance of Daniel Ricciardo. The 34-year-old driver has largely attributed his lacklustre start to the season to issues with his car's chassis.

The Visa Cash App RB (VCARB) driver’s disappointing performance has sparked discussions about the potential for him to be replaced mid-season by reserve driver, Liam Lawson.

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With the chassis change that Ricciardo’s car has undergone, there are high expectations for improved performance going forward. His upcoming performance at the Chinese GP will be one to watch closely.

Williams Racing

Another compelling storyline to watch is the situation unfolding at Williams Racing. The Grove-based team are experiencing an underwhelming start to the 2024 season, exacerbated by frequent crashes involving both drivers.

Team Principal, James Vowles, has emphasised the team's limited resources, leading to discussions about the drivers needing to be mindful of their driving styles to avoid crashes and damage during race weekends.

However, in response to these discussions, Thai driver, Alex Albon, has expressed confidence, stating that he and his teammate will approach the race weekend without the cautiousness dictated by the resource scarcity.

The performance of the British team at the Chinese Grand Prix could prove very important, especially considering the significant number of points available this weekend.

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Carlos Sainz's podium streak

The Spanish driver continues to enjoy an impressive start to the 2024 season. The Ferrari driver is currently the only driver on the grid to have clinched a podium place in every Grand Prix he has entered this season.

The 29-year-old will be eyeing another podium this weekend, especially considering he is yet to secure a seat for the 2025 season.

The 'smooth operator', as he is fondly dubbed, will be eyeing a finish above his teammate, Charles Leclerc, this weekend - a situation that would further point the fingers at Ferrari for their choice to let the Spanish driver go in favour of Lewis Hamilton.

Chinese Grand Prix preview and predictions

In a previous report, Sports Brief also compiled an extensive preview of the Formula 1 Chinese GP.

The F1 scene returns to the Shanghai International Circuit for the first time since the 2019 season.