Sauber’s Zhou, who participated in the Grand Prix held in China for the first time since 2019, had not been able to score points in the first four races of the season. However, this did not diminish the enthusiasm of the estimated 60,000 fans who attended each day.
«It’s quite challenging. While I try to focus on my work and my driving, the constant cheers and applause from the crowd are overwhelming. I am truly grateful,» Zhou expressed after finishing the race in 14th place, without scoring points.
Before lining up on the grid next to seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton, the 24-year-old driver shared how he watched the race from Turn 1 in 2004, dreaming of becoming an F1 driver in the future.
«It has been an incredibly emotional journey over the past twenty years. Everything goes through your mind so quickly. I am just grateful to be here,» Zhou commented after the race.
The presence of a Chinese driver in F1 is highly advantageous for the sport and its owners, Liberty Media, as they see China as a crucial market. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has already mentioned the possibility of China hosting two races in the future.
F1 enthusiast Xu Zheng, who traveled from Beijing to witness the race, emphasized the importance of Zhou for Chinese motorsport.
«A decade or two ago, when I was new to F1, the idea of having a Chinese driver racing in a Formula 1 car was unimaginable. Zhou Guanyu’s experience and journey will undoubtedly inspire more people in China interested in the sport or children who share the same dream to strive for success,» Xu Zheng stated. (Reported by Joe Cash)
