F1 Weather Watch – Chinese Grand Prix: Rain in the Forecast?

The Shanghai weekend looks dry and warm — but Sunday’s skies may turn tricky just as the championship pace starts to heat up.

Formula 1 is back in action this weekend for Round 2 of the 2025 season, heading to Shanghai for the highly anticipated Chinese Grand Prix — and the first Sprint weekend of the year.

After a rain-soaked opener in Australia, all eyes are now on the skies over the Shanghai International Circuit. So, what can we expect from the weather?

A Mostly Dry Weekend — But Keep an Eye on Sunday

The good news? Conditions should be warm and mostly pleasant throughout the weekend. The not-so-good news? There’s a chance of rain creeping in on Sunday, though it’s less likely than what we saw in Melbourne.

Forecasts currently suggest that any showers will arrive after the race, but with weather patterns still shifting, there’s room for surprises — good or bad.

FRIDAY, MARCH 21 – Free Practice & Sprint Qualifying

Conditions: Sunny with a light breeze, gusts up to 40 km/h
Free Practice 1: 24°C
Sprint Qualifying: 23°C
High: 24°C | Low: 10°C
Chance of rain: 0%

SATURDAY, MARCH 22 – Sprint Race & Grand Prix Qualifying

Conditions: More of the same — clear skies, light winds, with gusts in the evening around 35–40 km/h
Sprint Race: 25°C
Qualifying: 24°C
High: 25°C | Low: 13°C
Chance of rain: 0%

SUNDAY, MARCH 23 – Race Day

Conditions: Slightly cloudier, but dry through the race window. A few showers are possible after the checkered flag. Winds remain light.
Race Start: 26°C
High: 26°C | Low: 14°C
Chance of rain: 40%

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F1 China GP: Sunshine – Sprints and a Rainy Twist Ahead F1 China GP: Sunshine – Sprints and a Rainy Twist Ahead