Zhou Guanyu’s 2024 Contract Status Uncertain at Alfa Romeo, as Valtteri Bottas Holds an Existing Agreement

“As the 2024 season approaches its conclusion, all eyes are on the Sauber team, as speculation intensifies over who will secure their second race seat.

The main contenders in this heated competition are Zhou Guanyu and Theo Pourchaire, both eager to partner with Valtteri Bottas. While performance is a factor, it seems financial considerations may also play a role in the decision.

Zhou Guanyu, representing China, has endured a challenging season with just four points in an underperforming Alfa Romeo C43. Rumors have swirled that his Formula 1 career might be in jeopardy, fueled by suggestions of a “lack of budget.” However, Zhou has confidently addressed these rumors, stating, ‘Of course, I have personal sponsors, and I don’t feel like I lack any foundations on that.

Rumors are made up, but all the details we need to talk about with the team because it is not like it is the first contract, the second one is more [focused] on details because it is your second contract in F1. Nothing to be majorly worried about because I feel like what I show on track deserves to be in this paddock.’

Contrary to Zhou’s optimism, Formula 1 analyst Ted Kravitz suggests that the 24-year-old may have reason to be concerned. Kravitz commented, ‘Is Zhou Guanyu going to hang onto his drive next year? I don’t know. Theo Pourchaire is being highly rated if he wins or finishes high up in the F2 championship to take the second drive, given that he is an Alfa Romeo-Sauber junior. So it’s Zhou versus Pourchaire for this team in 2024. That’s what’s going on in the driver market at Alfa Romeo.’

Pourchaire, on the other hand, has been tight-lipped about his future with Sauber. Currently competing in Formula 2 with a significant lead in the championship, his 2024 plans remain uncertain should he clinch the title, as regulations dictate he must move on from Formula 2.

In an interview with GPBlog, Pourchaire said, ‘It’s true, it’s an honest answer, I don’t know. I just want to say a big thanks to the Sauber Academy for helping me for four years from F3. This season, I’m racing thanks to them. So it’s great to be the reserve driver as well. It’s a huge responsibility. And for the future, I am talking with them often, but we will see.’

With Formula 2 now entering a nearly three-month break before the decisive finale in Abu Dhabi, Theo Pourchaire is expected to assume a more prominent role behind the scenes with the Alfa Romeo team. He is set to cover two FP1 sessions for Alfa Romeo and dedicate additional time to the team’s simulator.”