Chinese Grand Prix 2017 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Lewis Hamilton struck back immediately after his Australian disappointment, dominating the Chinese Grand Prix from pole position to retake the championship lead. The Mercedes driver controlled proceedings at the Shanghai International Circuit, leading every lap to claim his fifth victory at the venue and level the championship battle at one win apiece.

Starting from pole, Hamilton made a clean getaway and was never seriously challenged throughout the 56-lap race. Vettel finished second for Ferrari, limiting the damage in the championship standings, while Max Verstappen secured his first podium of the season in third for Red Bull. The young Dutchman's strong performance highlighted Red Bull's potential despite their Renault power unit deficit to the Mercedes and Ferrari engines. Hamilton also set the fastest lap, collecting maximum points in his response to Ferrari's Australian victory.

The race demonstrated that Mercedes had the pace to fight back against Ferrari's resurgence, with Hamilton's commanding performance suggesting the Silver Arrows' dominance was far from over. The result tied the championship at 43 points each for Hamilton and Vettel, setting up what would become one of the season's defining rivalries. The close battle between the sport's two most successful active drivers promised an enthralling championship fight through the European season.