BREAKING: FIA announce new Curfew to F1 teams Chinese Grand

Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has formally notified Formula 1 teams of a temporary adjustment to curfew regulations ahead of this weekend’s Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit.

The second round of the 2026 Formula 1 season follows an action-packed opener in Australia, where George Russell secured victory in a dominant Mercedes one-two finish. Momentum now shifts to Shanghai, a venue that carries recent significance for several teams and drivers.

Notably, the circuit was the scene of Lewis Hamilton’s only success to date with Ferrari. The seven-time world champion claimed victory in the sprint race during the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix weekend. However, the celebrations were short-lived, as both Hamilton and team-mate Charles Leclerc were later disqualified from the main race.

In preparation for this year’s event, the FIA has introduced a one-off modification to what is known as “restricted period one.” Under standard regulations, this curfew period takes place on the Wednesday of a race weekend. During this time, operational and trainee personnel are prohibited from working at the circuit for 13 consecutive hours, concluding 29 hours before the start of Friday’s first practice session (FP1). The rule is designed to ensure staff welfare and maintain competitive fairness by limiting overnight work.

For the Chinese Grand Prix only, however, the governing body has reduced this restricted window from 13 hours to seven hours — but solely for a maximum of six operational team members per outfit. All other personnel will remain subject to the full curfew restrictions.

The adjustment allows a limited number of staff to remain on site specifically to complete tyre preparation work. Given the logistical demands of back-to-back race weekends and the technical complexities of the 2026 regulations era, the temporary relaxation is intended to facilitate smoother event operations without broadly compromising curfew principles.

Such exemptions are occasionally granted under special circumstances, particularly when scheduling or freight considerations place additional strain on teams. However, the FIA has made clear that this is a race-specific measure and does not represent a permanent change to curfew policy.

As Formula 1 continues its global calendar, teams will now focus on maximizing performance in Shanghai while adapting to the revised operational window for the weekend.