---

Zhou Guanyu: A Rising Star in Formula 1 (2019-2023)

Zhou Guanyu, born in Shanghai, China, on May 30, 1999, is a professional racing driver who has made significant strides in the world of Formula 1 from 2019 to 2023. Having developed a passion for racing at a young age, Zhou embarked on a journey that saw him navigate through various motorsport categories before making his mark in Formula 1. This article offers a detailed history of Zhou Guanyu's F1 career from 2019 to 2023.

2019: A Year of Preparation and Development

In 2019, Zhou Guanyu joined the Renault Sport Academy, a prestigious program that helps develop and nurture young racing talents. Throughout the year, he participated in the FIA Formula 2 Championship as a driver for UNI-Virtuosi Racing. His debut in Formula 2 was impressive, as he secured five podium finishes and ended the season in seventh place overall. While participating in Formula 2, Zhou was also appointed as the test and development driver for the Renault Formula 1 team. This role provided him valuable experience and exposure to F1 cars and technical aspects, laying a solid foundation for his future in the pinnacle of motorsports.

2020: The Continued Rise in Formula 2

Zhou continued his journey in Formula 2 with UNI-Virtuosi Racing in 2020. He displayed remarkable progress throughout the season, achieving three victories and two additional podium finishes. This stellar performance earned him sixth place in the overall standings, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and promising driver. During this period, Zhou remained an integral part of the Renault Sport Academy and continued his role as a test and development driver for the Renault Formula 1 team. His dedication and hard work paid off, as he was soon to make his debut in the world of Formula 1.

2021: A Pivotal Year and Formula 1 Debut

In 2021, Zhou experienced a turning point in his career. Renault's F1 team was rebranded as Alpine, and Zhou continued as the team's test and reserve driver. Simultaneously, he participated in his third season of Formula 2 with UNI-Virtuosi Racing. He demonstrated impressive consistency and skill throughout the season, securing four wins and several podium finishes. This outstanding performance led to a third-place finish in the overall standings, making him the highest-placed Chinese driver in Formula 2 history. Zhou's achievements did not go unnoticed, as Alfa Romeo Racing announced that he would make his Formula 1 debut as a full-time driver for the team in 2022, alongside veteran driver Kimi Räikkönen.

2022: Impressive Rookie Season in Formula 1

Zhou Guanyu's rookie season in Formula 1 was nothing short of impressive. Piloting the Alfa Romeo Racing C42 car, he demonstrated exceptional adaptability and composure, consistently scoring points and outperforming expectations. Zhou's standout performance came at the Chinese Grand Prix, where he finished in the points in front of his home crowd, bringing immense pride to his country. By the end of the 2022 season, Zhou had amassed a respectable number of points, finishing 14th in the Drivers' Championship standings. His performance throughout the year earned him the FIA's Rookie of the Year award, highlighting his potential as a future star in Formula 1.

2023: A Promising Start to the Season

Building on the momentum from his rookie year, Zhou entered the 2023 season with renewed confidence and determination. He continued to race for Alfa Romeo Racing, driving the upgraded C43 car. Zhou's growing experience and familiarity with the car led to improved performances in the early races of the season. With consistent points finishes and a few impressive battles against more established drivers, Zhou continued to make a name for himself in the Formula 1 paddock. His progress was also evident in his improved qualifying performances, as he consistently made it into Q2 and even Q3 on several occasions. As the 2023 season unfolds, Zhou Guanyu's career trajectory continues to point upwards. With a bright future ahead of him, the talented Chinese driver is set to become an essential figure in the world of Formula 1.

Summary of Zhou Guanyu's Formula 1 Career (2019-2023)

Year	Team	Car Model	Points	Position in Drivers' Championship
2019	Renault (Test and Development Driver)	-	-	-
2020	Renault (Test and Development Driver)	-	-	-
2021	Alpine (Test and Reserve Driver)	-	-	-
2022	Alfa Romeo Racing	C42	6*	18th
2023	Alfa Romeo Racing	C43	2*	15th*

*2023 season currently underway

Why does F1 use Zhou instead of Guanyu, what is his given name and what is his family name

In Chinese culture, the family name comes first, followed by the given name. In the case of Zhou Guanyu, "Zhou" is his family name and "Guanyu" is his given name. F1 uses "Zhou" instead of "Guanyu" because it is customary in international settings to refer to individuals by their family name, just as with other cultures, and he wanted to set that standard with F1 being the first Chinese driver in Formula 1.

How do you pronounce Zhou Guanyu

Zhou Guanyu is pronounced as "Joh Gwan-yoo." The "Zhou" part is pronounced like the English word "Joe" or "Joh," and "Guanyu" is pronounced as "Gwan-yoo," with "Gwan" rhyming with "swan" and "yoo" as in "you."

How old is Zhou Guanyu

Zhou Guanyu was born on May 30, 1999. In 2023 he will turn 24 years old.

When did Zhou Guanyu join F1

Zhou Guanyu joined Formula 1 as a full-time driver for Alfa Romeo Racing in the 2022 season. Prior to that, he had been a test and development driver for the Renault (later rebranded as Alpine) Formula 1 team from 2019 to 2021.

How tall is Zhou Guanyu

Zhou Guanyu stands at a height of approximately 1.75 meters (5 feet 9 inches).