HINWIL, Switzerland (AP) — Zhou Guanyu will be China’s first Formula 1 powertrain after signing with Alfa Romeo on Tuesday.
Zhou is leaving Formula 2, where he is in qualifying, and will be the spouse of Valtteri Bottas when the 10-time race winner leaves Mercedes for next season. All 20 grid positions for the 2022 season are already occupied.
Zhou has in the past been a driving force of control for the Alpine team and drove for them in a control consultation for the Austrian Grand Prix in July.
“Being the first Chinese driving force in (F1) is a breakthrough in the history of Chinese motorsport. I know there will be a lot of hope in me and, as always, I will see it as a motivation to improve and achieve more. Zhou said.
Zhou replaces Antonio Giovinazzi, who loses his F1 seat after 3 years as Alfa Romeo’s full-time engine. The Italian has scored just one point this year.
Zhou’s arrival comes at a time when F1 is trying to bring its expansion to life in China, which has hosted a grand prix since 2004 but has been unable to host in 2020 or 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. As there will also be no Chinese Grand Prix next year, it is expected to return the following year and F1 this month extended its contract with the Shanghai circuit until 2025.
“The news that Zhou Guanyu will be in F1 next season is for the game and the millions of passionate Chinese enthusiasts who now have a hero at home to cheer on throughout the year,” said Stefano Domenicali, CEO of F1.
“The pyramid in F2 works and promotes skill at the highest point of motorsport. Zhou is an incredible skill, which will be an addition to the amazing grid we have, and will entertain and keep all our Chinese enthusiasts excited in 2022. “
Before Zhou, the only Chinese driving force to take part in an F1 racing weekend, Ma Qinghua, who was a controlling driving force for the HRT and Caterham groups in 2012 and 2013 respectively.
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