Guanyu Zhou remains determined, positioning himself for a Formula 1 return as Ferrari’s reserve driver, ready to seize any opening.
Guanyu Zhou admits he “lost hope” of staying in Formula 1 with the Sauber team, owned by Audi, last year.
The first-ever Chinese driver in the sport’s history spent three full seasons with the Hinwil-based team since debuting in 2022. Like Valtteri Bottas, he lost his seat at the end of last season.
For 2025, he returns to Ferrari, where he was a junior driver before his F1 career, and will serve as a reserve alongside Antonio Giovinazzi this year.
The 25-year-old says last year’s race in Shanghai was the highlight of his life.
“Last year, I finally had the chance to race at home,” he told Chinese media this week, “but unfortunately, we had the slowest car since the start of the season and couldn’t even fight in the midfield.”
Overall, “2024 is a season I would like to forget.”
“At first, everything seemed fine, but after our pit stop issues were resolved, I found myself in the slowest car on the grid. Then, after a long stretch, I lost hope for the future.”
However, Zhou insists he hasn’t lost hope of “returning to Formula 1.”
“I haven’t yet reached my full potential.”
“So I’m still working on the future, and there are many rookies on the grid this year, so anything can happen. I’m always available and ready to seize any opportunity.”
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Zhou Eyes Ferrari Return: Ready for F1 Comeback Zhou Eyes Ferrari Return: Ready for F1 Comeback