F1’s Zhou Reflects on Early Gains, Frustration with C44’s Pace

Guanyu Zhou regrets Stake F1’s C44 decline, finding it tough to showcase his true potential amidst ongoing performance limitations.

Guanyu Zhou Reflects on Early Season Competitiveness and Struggles with Team’s Decline

Guanyu Zhou looks back wistfully to the beginning of the season, a time when the Sauber C44 matched its rivals, putting him close to reaching Q2 and within striking distance of points. However, the Stake F1 driver admits it’s challenging to accept the team’s current lag.

“Of course, it’s been very tough,” Zhou reflects. “I still remember those first races of the season because I felt much better then. We had issues, sure, especially in the pits, but the car was performing competitively against others battling in the midfield.”

Zhou felt he was able to demonstrate the progress and experience he had gained over his two and a half years in the sport. “You gain a better understanding, better knowledge of everything, and you get a clearer sense of what’s needed to go faster. But as a driver, it’s quite hard to accept.”

The Chinese driver explains his desire to remain in Formula 1, though the equipment he has isn’t allowing him to showcase his progress: “I think you do your best. You’re out in Q1 or struggling to get through.”

“Sometimes you’re just a tenth off, sometimes it’s half a second between you and the cut-off zone, which is difficult to attribute purely to driving. It’s been a challenging season, but you work with what you have.”

“I’m always giving it everything for the remaining races. I care about my future; I want to stay here as long as possible. So I’m fighting for that, and the opportunity is still there. I’m just keeping my head down and focusing.”

Zhou is still in discussions with Sauber regarding a contract extension for next season. However, he acknowledges he needs to consider other options as well: “We’ve had many more discussions than in recent race weekends, and we know nothing has been announced.”

“Similarly, nothing has been signed for the second seat, and it’s still open between me and Valtteri. So yes, nothing’s settled. We’re giving it our all every weekend to show Mattia what we can do, but ultimately, it’s up to him and the Audi team to make a decision.”

“You focus on the season, but you’re also thinking about what’s next if there isn’t a seat. Naturally, there are a few options that don’t look too bad. But, for now, racing remains the priority.”