Chinese Grand Prix 2008 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lewis Hamilton delivered a masterful performance under immense pressure at the Chinese Grand Prix, dominating the race from pole position to extend his championship lead to seven points heading into the season finale. The British driver led every lap at the Shanghai International Circuit, setting fastest lap and controlling the race with the composure of a seasoned champion, while Felipe Massa could only manage second place despite pushing Hamilton hard throughout.

Starting from pole with a blistering lap of 1:36.303, Hamilton made a perfect start and immediately pulled away from the chasing pack. The McLaren driver then proceeded to deliver one of his most complete performances, managing his pace perfectly while keeping Massa at arm's length throughout the 56 laps. Hamilton's speed was relentless, and he also set the fastest lap, completing a dominant weekend that exorcised the demons of his 2007 Chinese GP disaster when a tire failure while entering the pits had cost him the championship.

Massa drove a strong race to finish second, extracting the maximum from his Ferrari F2008 but unable to challenge Hamilton's superior pace. The Brazilian's runner-up finish kept his championship hopes alive, but he now needed to win in Brazil and hope Hamilton finished lower than fifth. Kimi Räikkönen secured third place for Ferrari, ensuring the constructor's championship remained open heading to the finale. The race was relatively clean and strategic, with tire management playing a crucial role on Shanghai's demanding circuit. Hamilton's victory put him on the brink of his first World Championship, needing only a fifth-place finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix to secure the title regardless of Massa's result. The stage was set for one of the most dramatic season finales in Formula 1 history.