Formula 1 sensation Zhou Guanyu recently opened up about his future with Alfa Romeo, revealing that a new contract for 2024 is just around the corner. The Chinese racer, who has the distinction of being the first full-time Chinese F1 driver, cleared the air regarding speculation that he might not have the financial clout to incentivise Alfa Romeo’s new contract.
The Alfa Romeo F1 managing director, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, commented before the summer break, expressing his squad’s inclination towards retaining both Zhou and his teammate Valtteri Bottas. Bottas, who switched from Mercedes in 2022 on a two-year contract, has an option to extend for 2024.
The Alfa Romeo seat, however, remains in high demand. FIA F2 champion Felipe Drugovich, with significant sponsor backing, and Alfa prodigy Theo Pourchaire are also in the race. Despite this, Zhou remains optimistic about his chances, sharing, “It’s a little bit [more] delayed than I expected. But it’s just due to finalizing some last-minute details with Alfa Romeo.”
Zhou, addressing rumors surrounding his financial backing, stated, “I have personal sponsors, and I’m not aware of any foundation lacking on that front. The first F1 contract might be up to the team, but the second one delves deeper into the details. I believe my on-track performance speaks for itself.”
The F1 star is focused on finalizing terms with Alfa Romeo, especially during its Audi takeover, rather than exploring other options. He emphatically added, “Currently, Alfa Romeo is the priority. There aren’t many seats available, and I’m keen on staying put.”
In related F1 news, Williams might have a seat available alongside Alex Albon, with Logan Sargeant’s future still hanging in the balance. Additionally, AlphaTauri is yet to announce their driver lineup for 2024.
**Confirmed 2024 F1 grid (contracts):**
– Red Bull: Max Verstappen (2028), Sergio Perez (2024)
– Mercedes: Lewis Hamilton (2025), George Russell (2025)
– Ferrari: Charles Leclerc (2024), Carlos Sainz (2024)
– Aston Martin: Fernando Alonso (2024), Lance Stroll (rolling)
– McLaren: Lando Norris (2025), Oscar Piastri (2024)
– Alpine: Esteban Ocon (2024), Pierre Gasly (2024)
– Williams: Alex Albon (2024), TBC
– Haas: Nico Hulkenberg (2024), Kevin Magnussen (2024)
– Alfa Romeo: Valtteri Bottas (2024), TBC
– AlphaTauri: TBC, TBC.