20 years after its debut on the Formula 1 calendar, the Chinese Grand Prix and Chinese Formula 1 fans finally have a ‘local hero’ to cheer for.
Sauber’s driver Zhou Guanyu finished his first home Grand Prix race in 14th place, while his teammate Valtteri Bottas had to retire midway through the race due to an engine loss.
Zhou praised the phenomenal support of his fellow countrymen.
“Just a very emotional weekend. Of course, as much as I tried to stay focused on my job, it’s difficult to, you know, see how the crowd is cheering.”
“It’s so loud every time you come in and out of the pit lane.”
Despite the focus on the emotions regarding his ‘historical’ home race, Zhou has also commented on the race.
“We didn’t really bring many upgrades, however, it’s great to see the team progress and pit stop. I need to give a heads-up to the guys.”
The late stage of the Chinese Grand Prix saw Zhou putting on the softest of the tires and having an on-track battle with Logan Sargeant, Kevin Magnussen, and Pierre Gasly.
Despite banking on fast laps on the softest tires, Zhou Guanyu could not get the fastest lap of the race, which went to Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso.
In the end, Sauber’s driver expressed excitement for the Chinese Grand Prix after a ‘hard journey’ to Formula 1.