Sauber driver Guanyu Zhou crossed the finish line in eighth place during the Qatar Grand Prix. It was the first time the Chinese driver scored points in 2024, also marking the first points for the Sauber team this season. Amidst the chaos in Doha, Zhou capitalized on multiple retirements and time penalties.
“Leave me alone, I’m pushing,” came the message over the team radio. Race engineer Andrea Benisi wanted to inform Guanyu Zhou (P8) about the gap to Fernando Alonso (P7). However, the Chinese driver needed to concentrate fully to avoid losing his eighth place to Kevin Magnussen. After all, it was the first time this year he could finish in the top ten. Eventually, he did indeed cross the finish line in eighth place. After a lackluster season, the relief was immense for the young Sauber driver.
‘Relishing in Abu Dhabi’
“What a relief,” Guanyu Zhou responded radiantly. “Happy is not the right word, I am truly relieved. Since the Las Vegas Grand Prix, I’ve been feeling much more comfortable in the car. Nevertheless, it was a very intense race.” Zhou benefited in Doha from multiple retirements and a hefty time penalty for Lando Norris (P10).
A points finish is a welcome surprise for Zhou. The 25-year-old driver is set to be dropped by the Sauber team next year and is unlikely to return to the grid. He is glad that he has been able to show potential new employers what he is capable of. “No one remembers your first race,” he explained. “They remember your last. So, I want to enjoy the final race (Abu Dhabi) and show everyone what I can do.”
