Zhou 'very close' to decision over F1 future

Zhou Guanyu is hopeful that an agreement over fresh Formula 1 contract with Alfa Romeo is "very close" as doubt remains over his future.

Zhou's contract expires at the end of the season and is locked in talks about a new deal which could see him stay with the team for a third season in F1, having acquitted himself well during his rookie and second campaigns.

The Chinese racer is under threat from Sauber junior driver Theo Pourchaire for the seat, with Pourchaire 25 points clear of Frederik Vesti in the F2 standings, with 39 available at the Abu Dhabi finale in November.

Despite Pourchaire being on the verge of the title, Zhou believes that now the F1 summer break is over, a decision could be reached within weeks.

Zhou's update

"Nothing is sure until you sign the contract," Zhou replied when asked by RacingNews365 if he was convinced he would be staying for 2024.

"Obviously, nothing has been decided, but we are getting very close to that point. It's definitely been heading a lot further along since the summer break.

"It is the shut down, so everybody, including myself, wasn't looking a their phone, but now I think it is the time for everything to be put into place, hopefully in the next few weeks.

One reason Zhou's future has been in doubt is due to his lack of personal sponsors, but believes he has solid foundations.

"I have less personal sponsors and I know what the rumours are, but I feel like I have a lack of any foundations.

"That is on our side, and the rumours are there but we need to talk about the details with the team because it is not the first contract I have in Formula 1.

"The second [contract] has been more or less the details because it is your second contract, but there is nothing major to be worried about and I feel like what I show on track deserves to continuously [on the grid.]"