In a significant shift for the Formula One landscape, Zhou Guanyu, the first Chinese F1 driver, and his teammate Valtteri Bottas will part ways with Kick Sauber at the conclusion of the 2024 season. Both the team and the drivers made the announcement on Wednesday, marking the end of a three-year partnership.
Sauber released a statement saying, \"After open and constructive discussions with Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, we mutually concluded that conditions to continue together could not be met so we agreed that it is time to part ways.\" The team expressed gratitude for the drivers' professionalism and contributions over the past three years.
The 2024 season has been challenging for Sauber, with the team failing to secure any points after 21 race weekends. Looking ahead, Sauber has confirmed the signing of F2 championship leader Gabriel Bortoleto and experienced driver Nico Hulkenberg for the next season.
Zhou joined Sauber in 2022 when the team was known as Alfa Romeo. During his tenure, the 25-year-old has achieved two fastest laps and secured his career-best result by finishing eighth at the Canadian Grand Prix in 2022.
Speaking about his departure, Zhou stated, \"I will leave the team at the end of the season, but I am fully committed to finishing the season in style. I am grateful to the team for giving me a chance in Formula One: this is not an easy sport for rookies, but the team has allowed me to grow so much over these three years.\"
On social media, Zhou shared his gratitude to fans: \"I would like to thank all of the fans for their continued support. You have been fantastic, and you continue to inspire me. I am immensely proud to represent my country as the first ever Chinese Formula 1 driver. I hope that my racing continues to inspire others who are following my story.\" He also expressed optimism about his future in the sport, stating that he is exploring options to stay within the Formula 1 paddock.
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Zhou Guanyu will part ways with Kick Sauber after 2024 season
cgtn.com
