Sauber, now known as the Stake F1 Team, has announced that it will part ways with Guanyu Zhou after three years. After an impressive debut season in 2022, in which Sauber secured sixth place in the championship, the Chinese driver had a lackluster season this year. Both he and Valtteri Bottas – who has also been let go – have not scored any points in 2024. As a result, the team, which will be taken over by Audi in two years, is opting for a completely new line-up.
Guanyu Zhou is grateful for the opportunity Sauber gave him to prove himself in Formula 1. “I will be leaving the team at the end of the season, but I am determined to finish this season in style,” he responded in an official press release. “The highlight was undoubtedly the race in China earlier this season.” The 25-year-old driver made history by being the first to race a home race at the Shanghai International Circuit. “I am ready for the next step in my career and look forward to continuing to develop myself,” he concluded.
‘Impressive Debut’
Sauber’s top executive, Mattia Binotto, former Ferrari team boss, expressed his appreciation for Guanyu Zhou and the growth the Chinese driver has made over the past few years. “The team is grateful to him for his dedication and the drive he has shown since his first race,” said the Italian. “His debut and his contribution to the successful 2022 season were very impressive, as was his involvement in the factory work.” Binotto finally emphasized that the last three races in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi will be dedicated to a fitting conclusion of the collaboration.
In anticipation of the acquisition by Audi, Sauber secured Haas driver Nico Hülkenberg earlier this year. The team will soon announce who his teammate will be. According to the usually well-informed F1-insider, Formula 2 driver Gabriel Bortoleto is in pole position to sign a contract with Sauber. The German medium suggests that an official announcement is ‘imminent’. The young Brazilian is currently leading the junior championship.
Guanyu Zhou during his home race in China earlier this year.
