Zhou Guanyu now shares how he plans to stay in F1 after being released by Sauber

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Sauber has confirmed that it will be parting ways with Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season.

It was unlikely that the Chinese driver would be continuing after a pointless season so far for Sauber, having also had two lacklustre seasons since his debut in 2022.

Zhou and Valtteri Bottas were handed a car that was barely capable of getting out of Q1 at most circuits, with the 10-time F1 race winner Finn unable to deliver a performance that yielded a points finish.

Sauber has confirmed it will be parting ways with both drivers for the 2025 season, in a move that is set to pave the way for F2 racer and McLaren junior Gabriel Bortoleto.

Zhou has issued a statement on social media thanking his team and confirming that he is exploring options to stay in the F1 paddock for the future.

Zhou Guanyu exploring options to stay in F1 paddock after Sauber axe

Sauber’s driver lineup for the 2025 season was always going to be made with the 2026 season in mind, given that Audi is set to take over the team and turn it into a full works outfit.

Nico Hulkenberg will be their second driver to pair with Bortoleto, however, Zhou is now exploring options to stay in the F1 paddock in what could see him take up a reserve role at another team.

“I will be leaving the Stake F1 team at the end of the 2024 season. I would like to thank all of the fans for their continued support. You have been fantastic, and you continue to inspire me. I am immensely proud to represent my country as the first-ever Chinese F1 driver. I hope that my racing continues to inspire others who are following my story,” said Zhou.

“I am happy to have already achieved many things under difficult conditions in F1, including scoring points in my first race, fastest lap, and some memorable battles throughout the grid. Sadly, the last two seasons have been challenging for all, but I want to look forward. I am positive about the future, and I am now totally focused on making sure that I can truly show what I am capable of. I’m now discussing a number of options to stay in the F1 paddock, will update you all soon.”

Liberty Media could help Zhou Guanyu stay involved in F1

Liberty Media could end up helping Zhou Guanyu stay in F1 given his popularity in China and how it has influenced their position in the Chinese market.

Zhou’s grandstand at this year’s Chinese GP sold out in minutes and there is concerns over whether F1 can sustain any popularity in the country without a home hero and several years not racing due to COVID.

Liberty Media has previously stepped in to help Sergio Perez due to fears they could see a major drop in revenue for the Mexico City GP, although Franco Colapinto has provided an alternative should he secure a seat for 2025.

Zhou could end up finding refuge at Alpine given they are set to ditch their in-house engines for Mercedes from 2026, and the Chinese driver’s financial backing could help fund the deal.