Guanyu Zhou's performance in the last few races calls into question his future in Formula 1. The start crash in Hungary, in which he was responsible for two Alpines being out of the race, and the Netherlands closing the weekend with two accidents show that Zhou is out of shape.
Recent rumors from the paddock suggest that Zhou will lose his seat to Sauber academy driver Theo Pourchaire, who is racing in Formula 2.
Zhou denies these rumors and says negotiations for a new contract are continuing. "The process took a little longer than I expected," Zhou told RacingNews365. said.
Zhou is an important asset to Formula 1 as a Chinese sponsor. China is one of Formula 1's biggest markets and its return to the calendar next season will further increase Zhou's value.
Zhou also talked about his sponsors and said, "Of course, I have personal sponsors, and I do not feel any deficiency in this regard." said.
Negotiations for Zhou's new contract are expected to be concluded in the coming weeks. Although Zhou is out of form, factors such as Chinese sponsors and China's return to the calendar may make it easier for him to stay in the team.
Here are some possibilities for Zhou's future:
- Zhou renews his current contract and remains at Alfa Romeo.
- Zhou leaves Alfa Romeo to make way for Pourchaire.
- Zhou signs with another team.
