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Copyright © 2024 CGTN. 京ICP备20000184号
Disinformation report hotline: 010-85061466
Zhou Guanyu of Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber looks on ahead of the Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix at the Interlagos race track in Sao Paulo, Brazil, November 3, 2024. /CFP
Zhou Guanyu, first Formula One (F1) Driver of China, will part ways with Kick Sauber at the end of the 2024 season, both the team and driver confirmed on Wednesday. Zhou's partner Valtteri Bottas will leave the team as well.
"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," Sauber said in a statement. "We would like to thank both for the contribution they have made to the team in the last three years. They have been the embodiment of professionalism, using their experience and enthusiasm to support our growth."
Sauber have been struggling during the 2024 campaign with no points after 21 race weekends. They confirmed the signing of F2 championship leader Gabriel Bortoleto alongside Nico Hulkenberg next season.
Zhou joined Sauber in 2022 when they were known by the name "Alfa Romeo. He has been partnering with Bottas since then. The 25-year-old Chinese has achieved two fastest laps and finished eighth for his career-best result at the Canadian Grand Prix in 2022.
"I will leave the team at the end of the season, but I am fully committed to finishing the season in style," Zhou said. "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."
"I would like to thank all of the fans for their continued support. You have been fantastic, and you continue to inspire me," Zhou posted on X. "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. I am happy to have already achieved many things under difficult conditions in Formula 1, including scoring points in my first race, fastest lap and some memorable battles throughout the grid."
"Sadly, the last two seasons have been challenging for all, but I want to look forward. I am positive about the future, and I am now totally focused on making sure that I can truly show what I am capable of. I'm now discussing a number of options to stay in the Formula 1 Paddock, will update to you all soon," he added.