Zhou Guanyu faces a crucial season in 2024 with the Stake F1 team. The Chinese Formula 1 driver made his debut for Alfa Romeo, now Kick Sauber, in 2022, marking a significant milestone for Chinese racers. After Alfa Romeo ceased to be the main sponsor, the 24-year-old driver will compete in his third F1 season in 2024 for the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, a revamped version of the team.
Guanyu will be with the Kick Sauber team until the end of the 2024 season as he has not yet signed a contract extension. Amid all the uncertainties about his career, Guanyu recently had the opportunity to showcase his popularity. He signed an endorsement deal with ASUS-ROG, a division of the technology giant ASUS. The Chinese driver will be their new global ambassador, according to the announcement he made on social media.
Zhou made his Formula 2 debut in 2019 and achieved success in various races, as well as securing pole positions in three seasons before competing for the driver’s championship in 2021. He secured a spot at Alfa Romeo in 2022 after the team boss at the time gave him the opportunity, recognizing his skills as a driver, as well as his potential to attract significant sponsorships. Heading into the 2024 season, he is under pressure to stand out and secure his place.
The first Chinese Formula 1 driver, Zhou Guanyu, has faced criticism since joining Alfa Romeo in 2022. Guanyu is looking forward to the return of the Chinese Grand Prix in 2024, after his performances in 2023 earned him another year with the team. He mentioned the criticism he received after becoming an F1 driver, due to claims that money played a role in securing his place, which was painful as he had worked hard his whole life to reach this level.
He is determined to shine under pressure in the upcoming season and prove that he deserves a place at the top. The Bahrain GP this weekend will be the perfect opportunity for him to start strong, as he has always been impressive in the season opener.
