Guanyou Zhou becomes the new development driver for Renault
After being ousted from Ferrari's young driver academy, Guanyu Zhou finds refuge with Renault and secures the coveted position of development driver within the French team.
Before joining the French organization, Guanyu Zhou was noticed in 2014 by Ferrari’s young driver program. He was only 15 years old at the time and was excelling in karting. Encouraged by Ferrari, the Chinese driver took part in the Italian Formula 4 championship and finished in an honorable 2nd place in the standings. Despite 11 podiums, including two wins in European Formula 3 from 2017 to 2018 with Prema, Zhou was not convincing enough, leading to his dismissal from the Italian organization.
The 19-year-old Chinese driver is determined to prove his true value to his employer as he will be conducting numerous tests in the simulator at Enstone for Renault F1 Team and will also participate in technical meetings to improve the RS 19. Guanyu Zhou thus becomes the first Chinese driver affiliated with a manufacturer.
In parallel with his program with Renault, the young Asian hopeful will make his debut in the stepping-stone to Formula 1 with the F2 team Uni-Virtuosi, formerly known as Russian Time.
Guanyu Zhou is very optimistic about the future: « It’s a great honor to join Renault Sport Racing as a member of the Academy and development driver for the Formula 1 team, and I can’t wait to start. Renault has great ambitions, both for the Formula 1 team and for the Academy; and that is something that motivates me. I understand the importance of Renault in China. Therefore, I am particularly proud to represent both Renault, as a brand, and China in the racing world. Formula 2 is the next step in my career. It seems to be a competitive field of drivers and there will be a lot to learn in a short period of time. I worked hard over the winter and the three-day Formula 2 tests in Abu Dhabi were extremely beneficial. I am looking forward to relying on Renault’s help and guidance this season as I aim for success and trophies. »
We’re very pleased to welcome Chinese teen Guanyu Zhou to the #RenaultSportAcademy for 2019! ‘Joe’ will also take on the role as the team’s Development Driver, alongside duties racing in @FIA_F2.#RSspirit pic.twitter.com/Gt8f8GTP37
— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) January 22, 2019
