F1H2O World Championship returns to Shanghai in October

Credit: Zhou Shengjie / Shanghai Daily

Caption: Mechanics and racers from overseas teams work on boats during last year's F1H2O World Championship China Grand Prix in Shanghai.

The F1H2O World Championship will return to Shanghai in October, bringing top powerboat racers from around the world to the mouth of the Yangtze River.

The China Grand Prix will take place on October 2-4 in suburban Baoshan District. Ten teams and more than 20 drivers from 14 countries and regions, including China, France, Italy, Sweden and the United Arab Emirates, are expected to compete.

This year's race will be held in the Changtan area of Baoshan District. The course design aims to improve safety for drivers and provide better viewing for spectators, according to the district.

The venue will feature three types of seating: open area, general admission, and VIP boxes. More than 60 mobile toilets and on-site cleaning services will be provided.

For the first time, free viewing zones will also be available. Organizers estimate daily attendance could exceed 3,000.

Tickets went on sale on Wednesday at 6pm on Damai, the official ticketing partner. They are available through the Damai app, Alipay and WeChat mini programs.

Credit: Zhou Shengjie / Shanghai Daily

Caption: Powerboats race along the Yangtze River during the 2024 F1H2O Grand Prix in suburban Baoshan District.

Prices range from 160 yuan (US$22.3) to 630 yuan, with options including half-day, full-day, single-person two-day, and two-person passes.

An early-bird discount is available, and spectators can claim the city's sports vouchers through Alipay for additional savings.

Entry will require real-name registration. Spectators must bring their ID cards or passports and pass face recognition checks at the gates.

A water sports carnival will be staged on October 5-7 at the nearby Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, with performances, brand showcases and interactive activities.

On October 9, Baoshan will host the Global Sports Equipment Industry Summit, focusing on new materials, sports technology and tourism integration.

The race will be broadcast live to more than 100 countries and regions. With both Formula One racing on land and F1H2O on water, Shanghai now stands among the few cities worldwide hosting both elite motorsports events, according to the organizers.