The Sauber team lineup for next season is now well defined, with Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, while the prospects for Zhou’s future could expand, with a potential role at Ferrari and the entry of GM-Cadillac in 2026.
During the press conference ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix, the penultimate race of the Formula 1 season, Zhou Guanyu had the chance to answer some questions from Luke Smith of The Athletic, a section of The New York Times dedicated to sports, about his future in motorsport.
With the announcement of Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 starting in 2026, the possibility of two additional seats becoming available opens up. Along with the ongoing rumors surrounding the Chinese driver, who might take on the role of reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari HP, there’s also the prospect of his return to the category as part of the new team, which will be led by Mario Andretti as chairman of the board, in two years.
When asked if Zhou had already been in contact with representatives from General Motors and Cadillac, the current Sauber driver responded: “I think it’s very positive for the sport in general (the new team entering the grid, editor’s note),because we always talk about the fact that there are probably few spots available for young drivers. Clearly, I think next year we’ll have many young drivers. And from my point of view, it’s a great opportunity and a big chance for the next season, since right now I don’t have a seat.”
He continued: “So, I can think about what the future could hold and try to take advantage of any opportunities that arise in that context. I’m aware of all of that, but it was just announced this week, so some details still need to be worked out. But for me, the priority is to keep looking for, as I’ve always said, another opportunity to get back on the grid. So, for me, it’s not so much about where I’ll go, but if there’s a chance to take, I’ll absolutely grab it. Let’s see what the future holds.”
Additionally, when asked about the possibility of racing in other series, like WEC, following Mick Schumacher’s example, or IndyCar, Zhou made it clear that he is staying alert and continuing to look for the right opportunity that might bring him back behind the wheel of one of the fastest cars in the world, stating that he still has a lot of potential to show on track.
“Actually, for next year, I’ve decided not to participate in another series simply because I feel that with so many doors potentially opening up, not just next year but also the year after, I want to make sure there’s an opportunity for me, if needed, to get back in the car for a race or not, but I’ll be fully available to do so. […] I think I just have to make sure that, in the next chapter, I’ll be in a happy place, aware that there will be a chance to get back on the grid because I think this year I haven’t shown my full potential yet. I definitely want another chance if the opportunity arises. Let’s see, ” the driver said in the press conference.
Photos: FIA, Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber.