Zhou Guanyu, China’s first Formula 1 driver, will bid farewell to Kick Sauber at the end of the 2024 season, marking the end of a three-year partnership. The team confirmed the news Wednesday alongside the departure of Zhou’s teammate, Valtteri Bottas, as the squad reshapes its roster for 2025.
💬 \"We mutually concluded that conditions to continue together could not be met,\" Sauber stated, praising Zhou and Bottas for their professionalism and dedication. The team has struggled this season, sitting at zero points after 21 races. New signings Gabriel Bortoleto (F2’s rising star) and Nico Hulkenberg aim to turn the tide next year.
Zhou, 25, leaves behind a legacy as a trailblazer: his debut F1 points in 2022, two fastest laps, and a career-best 8th place finish at the 2022 Canadian Grand Prix. \"I’m grateful to the team for giving me a chance,\" he said, reflecting on his journey from rookie to global sports icon. 🌏
Fans flooded social media with support as Zhou hinted at future plans: \"I’m discussing options to stay in F1… stay tuned.\" His historic role as China’s first F1 driver has inspired millions, and he vows to keep pushing boundaries. 🏁
What’s next for Zhou? The racing world is buzzing—could a new team offer him the competitive car he’s been chasing? 🚦 One thing’s certain: this isn’t a goodbye, but a pit stop before the next lap.
