Not extended by Sauber for next season, Guanyu Zhou could bounce back with Scuderia Ferrari.
After scoring a point for his very first Grand Prix in 2022 with the Hinwil-based team, Zhou subsequently never really impressed.
The first Chinese to compete in a Formula 1 Grand Prix will have scored only six small points in 2022 then in 2023 before posting a blank score this season, in a single-seater, it must be admitted, which currently seems incapable of enter the top 10.
After losing his starting seat at Sauber for 2025, which will line up a 100% renewed duo with Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, Guanyu Zhou could join Ferrari.
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Zhou reserve driver at Ferrari in 2025?
Indeed, according to Corriere della Sera, Zhou could become the reserve driver of the Scuderia in 2025, thus replacing Oliver Bearman who will be established at Haas. “Zhou is expected at Ferrari as a reserve driver for next year”indicates the Italian media.
RacingNews365 later confirmed that Ferrari was an option for Zhou, but added that no contract had been signed. The media also indicates that the Chinese brings with him a “considerable financial support”.
If this is confirmed, it would therefore be a return for Guanyu Zhou, who belonged to the Ferrari Driver Academy from 2014 to 2018. In his role as reserve driver, Zhou could use his experience as a regular driver to notably help Ferrari in the simulator. Recruiting a Chinese driver could also benefit the Italian brand from a commercial and marketing point of view.
Before a possible arrival at Ferrari in 2025, Guanyu Zhou will have to take advantage of the three remaining Grands Prix in 2024 which could well be his last in F1. With zero points on the clock this year, the Sauber driver occupies 21st place in the drivers' championship, two places better than his teammate Valtteri Bottas, 23rd and last. His best result in 2024 remains his 11th place at the season opener in Bahrain.
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