Zhou Guanyu Acknowledges Slim Chances of Securing 2025 F1 Seat

Sauber is in the process of finalizing its driver lineup for 2025, with Valtteri Bottas and Gabriel Bortoleto emerging as the frontrunners. Unfortunately for Zhou Guanyu, who has spent three seasons with the team, the likelihood of receiving a contract extension is low. With his prospects for a full-time seat diminishing, the 25-year-old is now looking for alternatives within the F1 paddock.

Zhou Considering a Reserve Role to Stay Active in F1

Throughout the season, Zhou has consistently emphasized that Formula 1 is his top priority. Earlier this year, amid rumors linking him to several teams, it seemed plausible that he might secure a 2025 contract. However, the landscape has shifted for the Chinese driver. Teams he once hoped to join, such as Haas and Alpine, have already filled their driver positions for the upcoming season, leaving Sauber as his only realistic option.

Recent weeks have made it clear that Zhou is not a primary candidate to remain with the Swiss team in 2025. Speaking with Crash.net at Monza, he acknowledged that he “could accept the fact” that Bottas is more likely to continue with the team next year. He further articulated that staying in F1, regardless of the role, is his priority:

“At the moment, I don’t want to be in other series yet. I feel like I’m still in a period where if I can stay in F1, or make a comeback if I don’t have a seat, there will still be chances to showcase my skills.”

Reserve Driver Role as a Viable Next Step

While Zhou could transition to another prestigious motorsport series, he remains focused solely on Formula 1. Historically, when a driver loses their F1 seat, regaining a full-time position can be challenging. However, securing a reserve driver contract offers a valuable opportunity to stay engaged in the paddock and ready for any potential openings.

Jack Doohan faced some criticism when he first took on the role of reserve driver for Alpine, yet he ultimately earned a full-time contract for 2025. Thus, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Zhou remain active in the paddock next season as he seeks to keep his F1 aspirations alive.

Source: https://lastwordonsports.com/motorsports/2024/09/09/zhou-guanyu-admits-that-2025-f1-seat-is-unlikely/