Zhou Guanyu secures Alfa Romeo seat for 2024, Eyes return of Chinese Grand Prix

The decision caps a period of intense negotiations that left the motorsport world speculating about the talented Chinese driver's future with the team.

During his second season in Formula 1, Zhou has demonstrated remarkable prowess, consistently delivering alongside Bottas. Amidst rumours of Formula 2 champion-elect Theo Pourchaire potentially replacing him, Zhou ultimately clinched a deal to stay with the team for 2024, coinciding with the anticipated return of the Chinese Grand Prix to the Formula 1 calendar.

Zhou's ability to provide invaluable technical feedback and maintain a professional demeanour on and off the track has garnered significant admiration from the team. The decision to retain him for a third season was deemed a "natural conclusion."

Expressing his gratitude, Zhou stated, "Signing again with the team is always a great feeling, especially when we know how things are shaping up. I am proud to be part of Alfa Romeo and grateful for their trust."

Zhou also expressed his enthusiasm for racing on home turf, stating, "I am also very excited about the opportunity to finally race with my team in China, in front of my home crowd. It will be a great moment and I'm proud to be able to share it with all those who have supported me."

Alessandro Alunni Bravo, a representative of the team, described the decision to retain Zhou and Bottas as a strategic move aimed at maintaining stability during the transition period leading up to Audi's arrival in 2026. He highlighted the synergistic dynamic between the two drivers, noting, "Valtteri and Zhou are drivers of known talent and skill and they work really well together: they are well-matched and can push each other."

With Zhou's contract renewal, only three seats remain unclaimed on the 2024 Formula 1 grid, leaving drivers like Logan Sargeant and candidates for AlphaTauri's seats—Yuki Tsunoda, Daniel Ricciardo, and Liam Lawson—in a state of uncertainty.

The motorsport community's attention now shifts to the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, scheduled for September 15-17, which promises to be a grueling test of drivers' skills on the challenging Marina Bay Circuit—a 5.063km bumpy street surface known for its demanding nature and humid conditions.

 

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