Chinese GP Preview: Russell vs Ferrari, Hamilton in Shanghai and the 2026 Rules Debate | F1 2026

Formula One is heading to Shanghai and the stakes could not be higher. In today's episode of No Lift F1 we break down everything you need to know ahead of the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix, the first sprint weekend of the season.We revisit the Australian Grand Prix in full — the Ferrari strategy disaster that handed George Russell the win, the seven lead changes between Russell and Leclerc in nine laps, and what the new 2026 power unit regulations are actually doing to the racing. We talk about the ongoing driver debate over Overtake Mode, why Lando Norris has already changed his tune, and what the FIA's post-China rule review could mean for the rest of the season.Then we preview Shanghai. Why Lewis Hamilton has history at this circuit. Why Mercedes should be fast on the long straight. Why Red Bull and McLaren are in trouble. What the sprint format means when teams barely get one practice session to figure these cars out. And what to watch in the drivers and constructors championship battle as Russell leads Antonelli, Leclerc and Hamilton heading into round two.We also cover Verstappen's comeback from twentieth to sixth, Kimi Antonelli's stunning debut podium, rookie Arvid Lindblad scoring points on his first ever F1 race weekend, Audi's first Formula One points, and why Aston Martin and Honda are already in a difficult position just one race in.Daily F1 podcast. Every race week and every quiet week. No Lift F1.