THE Chinese Grand Prix will open the track after the race for the first time this year, allowing thousands of Formula One fans to have a closer look at the athletes, organizers said at a press conference today.

Fans will also be allowed closer to the ceremony for the top three drivers.

Shanghai International Circuit Company also said it will not issue free tickets anymore. About 90,000 F1 fans attended last year's race, but only 48,000 bought tickets. Shanghai Circuit manages the racetrack and stands.

Also, a grass area for about 4,000 to 5,000 student fans will be added this year, organizers said. The organizers didn't say how many tickets on the grass were sold last year.

The Chinese Grand Prix will take place from October 5 to 7.

Because of the Special Olympics, which will take place during the Chinese Grand Prix, shuttle bus stops from downtown to the circuit in Jiading District will change slightly.

The Shanghai Indoor Stadium stop will be moved to Kaixuan Road and Zhongcao Road behind Huating Hotel. The Changning Gymnastics Center stop will be changed to No. 200 Huichuan Road, near Zhongshan Park Metro station.

Stops at Hongkou Stadium and Pudong Yuanshen Sports Center remain unchanged.