Zhou Guanyu and Sauber Motorsport will half on the finish of the 2024 season, marking the shut of a outstanding three-year chapter with the Swiss crew. Zhou, who joined Sauber in 2022, made a direct influence together with his debut on the Bahrain Grand Prix, scoring factors and serving to the crew obtain its greatest Constructors’ Championship end in a decade — P6. This success solidified Zhou’s position as a key driver for Sauber, changing into one of the recognizable figures in F1 as he established himself throughout the Stake F1 Workforce alongside teammate Valtteri Bottas.
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Zhou’s tenure with Sauber has been outlined by development and a robust partnership with Bottas. The Shanghai-born driver transitioned from a rookie to a reliable and thrilling driver, persistently delivering thrilling performances. One of many highlights of his journey was the emotional Chinese language Grand Prix in 2024, his first dwelling race, the place he obtained a standing ovation from 1000’s of followers. Zhou battled fiercely within the dash and essential races, coming near the factors in a race that will probably be remembered as a milestone in his profession with Sauber.
Past his on-track contributions, Zhou Guanyu has change into a method icon within the F1 world. His aptitude, ardour for trend, and charisma have attracted a recent, youthful viewers to the game, and he has introduced new followers to Stake and Sauber. Because the season nears its finish, Zhou stays dedicated to delivering stable performances within the final three races, hoping to go away an enduring influence earlier than transferring on to the subsequent stage of his profession.
Zhou Guanyu on his Departure:“I’ll go away the crew on the finish of the season, however my focus stays on ending sturdy. Sauber gave me my probability in Method One, and I’m grateful for the expansion and assist I’ve skilled over these three years. Competing in entrance of my dwelling crowd in China was unforgettable, however each second right here has been particular. Trying forward, I nonetheless have loads of ambition and am prepared for the subsequent chapter.”
Mattia Binotto, COO & CTO, Sauber Motorsport AG:“The journey with Zhou Guanyu and Sauber has been unimaginable, and each Zhou and Valtteri have been pivotal in our latest successes. Zhou’s development, dedication, and influence on the crew’s tradition and fanbase have been immense. As we half methods, we stay up for celebrating our achievements collectively in Las Vegas, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, with the whole crew and Zhou united in ending this season on a excessive observe.”
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With Zhou Guanyu and Sauber finishing their partnership, the Stake F1 Workforce appears towards the longer term whereas celebrating the legacy Zhou leaves behind as an envoy for each Sauber and the game.