March 20, 2025
2 Minute Read
Chinese Grand Prix Preview & Betting Tips
Formula 1 heads to Shanghai International Circuit this weekend for the return of the Chinese Grand Prix after a long absence. With Lando Norris securing F1 victory in Melbourne, all eyes are on McLaren to see if they can maintain their early-season advantage or if Red Bull and Mercedes will hit back.
🏁 Chinese Grand Prix Schedule
📅 Friday, March 22
🕞 3:30 AM – Practice 1
🕢 7:30 AM – Sprint Qualifying
📅 Saturday, March 23
🕒 3:00 AM – Sprint Race
🕖 7:00 AM – Grand Prix Qualifying
📅 Sunday, March 24
🕖 7:00 AM – Race Start
(All times UTC)
Who Are the Contenders?
🔶 Lando Norris – The New Frontrunner?
The same driver has won the first two races of an F1 season in only three of the last ten years but Lando Norris looks capable of matching Max Verstappen’s achievement last year by winning the first two rounds of the championship.
Betting Pick: Norris to Win – 1.95
🔵 Max Verstappen – Red Bull’s Fightback?
The four-time champion had to settle for second place in Australia. Historically, Shanghai has been a strong track for Red Bull, but with less straight-line speed dominance this season, Verstappen may have to work harder for the win.
A podium looks likely, but another Norris victory could make this a genuine title fight heading into the next races.
⚫ Mercedes – A Surprise Contender?
Kimi Antonelli made an impressive debut in Melbourne, handling tricky conditions to secure solid points. Mercedes have a strong track record in China, winning six times here.
With Ferrari struggling for consistency, Antonelli could once again be in the mix for a Top 6 finish.
Betting Pick: Antonelli Top 6 – 1.65
Final Thoughts – What to Watch in Shanghai
🔹 Is McLaren really faster than Red Bull? Norris has the momentum, but Verstappen will be desperate to reassert control.
🔹 Mercedes & Ferrari – Where do they stand? Mercedes looked strong in Australia, but Ferrari need to bounce back.
🔹 Sprint Race Wildcards? With only one practice session, expect some surprises in the Sprint.
The Chinese Grand Prix always delivers excitement, and with so many questions still unanswered, Sunday’s race could set the tone for the rest of the season.
🏆 Chinese Grand Prix Best Bets Recap
✅ Lando Norris to Win – 1.95
✅ Kimi Antonelli Top 6 Finish – 1.65
Can Norris make it two in a row? Or will Verstappen remind everyone why he’s the reigning champion? We’ll find out on Sunday!
Odds are correct at time of writing
