Zhou Guanyu claims he ‘doesn’t give sh*t’ about rumors over his F1 future by giving Sergio Perez example

Rumours concerning Zhou Guanyu's future have been spreading recently over media outlets and the internet.

Zhou Guanyu (Via IMAGO)

Zhou Guanyu joined the F1 grid in 2023, entering his rookie season with Alfa Romeo alongside Valtteri Bottas. Zhou set the landmark of representing his nation by being the only Chinese driver ever to compete in Formula One. Zhou did not stand out in his first season, unable to score points in an uncompetitive car.

2023 was similar, but uncertainty still loomed over his future in F1 due to his inability to match teammate Bottas. Zhou lashed out at rumors of his replacement, citing similar rumors of Sergio Perez’s retirement being unfounded to defend his position.

People were saying Sergio [Perez] would retire in the Mexico GP but nothing goes on. It is the rumours of Fernando [Alonso] swapping his seat [to join Red Bull]. That's crazy. I don't give a shit about it, to be honest! It is like all the other crazy stuff I got when I first signed my contract.

Zhou GUanyu said, as reported by autosport.com

Zhou is currently driving for Sauber, which recently underwent a major revamp in its branding to become Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber. Sauber is under new management after title sponsor Alfa Romeo left the sport.

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Zhou Guanyu has high hopes for 2024 F1 campaign with Sauber

Alfa Romeo made its return to Formula 1 in 2019, sponsoring the Sauber team as a title sponsor, with the team being renamed. Managing only mediocre results, Alfa Romeo was unable to attain their former success in their brief stint and departed at the end of the 2023 season.

Now that the Sauber brand is back, the Swiss is looking for much better results in 2024, after finishing ninth out of the ten teams in 2023. With major steps incoming for the next season in terms of car development, Zhou Guanyu has claimed he is optimistic about the 2024 Sauber’s challenger, with a redesign of the vehicle entirely.

I’m looking forward to obviously trying next year’s car because I think with the field, just picking up two or three tenths a lap you will be battling from the back to the midfield, so it’s super-important.

Zhou Guanyu said, as reported by si.com

Sauber’s progressive steps for car development will pave the way for Audo, which will enter the sport in 2026. Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu will have to perform at a higher level to for the German manufacturer to consider retaining them after the buyout.