Official activity for the Shanghai round is scheduled to begin on 3 October 2026. Shaun Torrente arrives as the F1H2O drivers' standings leader with 40 points. Victory is second in the teams' championship on 60, one point behind Team Abu Dhabi on 61, according to WAM.
The margin is tiny. Victory wants to defend the drivers' and teams' titles it won last season, and Shanghai gives the squad a chance to strengthen its position.
The 2026 Grand Prix of Shanghai is the penultimate championship stop, ahead of the season finale in Sharjah, UAE.
Preparation for a close title race
Victory has finished its preparations for the Shanghai Grand Prix. The work included training and technical checks on the boats and equipment. The team's technical staff reviewed the setup before the trip to China. Team officials say every point matters in a closely packed standings.
The UAE's international sports calendar has also featured an All Star Sumo event in Abu Dhabi. Victory's immediate test is on the water in Shanghai.
Three days from checks to the main race
The Shanghai round is scheduled for 3 to 5 October 2026. According to Al Ittihad, official activity starts on 3 October with the team area opening, registration and technical inspection. Free practice, qualifying and sprint races are on the 4 October programme. The main race is set for 5 October.
WAM lists Sharjah Team and Stromoy Racing as Victory's nearest team challengers, both on 53 points. Victory is on 60, with Team Abu Dhabi leading on 61.
Dubai International Marine Sports Club executive director Mohammed Hareb said Victory was travelling with "high morale and full readiness." Al Ittihad reported that he stressed the value of every point in the tight standings. He also pointed to the preparation by the technical and administrative staff. His stated target is the best possible result and a stronger position in the world championship race.
Torrente, driver of Victory's boat number 1, said the squad had worked hard. He said the team would need to focus from the first practice session through to the main race. Small details could decide the outcome, he said, and the team aims to maximise its points haul.
Torrente leads the drivers' standings. Victory is just one point off the teams' lead. Shanghai will test how well the squad performs under pressure. Preparation is done. Race weekend comes next.
