ALPINE GIVE ZHOU F1 OPPORTUNITY

Formula 2 front runner Guanyu Zhou will get the chance to take part in his first-ever Formula 1 practice session at the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend with the Alpine F1 Team.

The Alpine Academy member who is currently the team’s Test Driver will drive Fernando Alonso’s car for the hour-long FP1 session at the Red Bull Ring in the second of two back to back events at the venue.

Zhou will become the first Chinese driver in eight years to participate in an F1 weekend.

“Driving in FP1 at a Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend is like a dream coming true and another step closer to my ultimate goal of becoming a Formula 1 driver. It’s going to be a very special moment.” said Zhou.

“I’m preparing myself as much as I can to be ready and also ensure that I’m able to complete all the targets and plans that the team have set me to do.”

“There have not been many Chinese drivers in Formula 1, so to be behind the wheel of an F1 car during a race weekend is going to be a very proud feeling.”

“It’s going to be even more special that I’m driving Fernando’s car as he inspired me to pursue a career in racing when I was young.”

“I’m very happy with my achievements so far and I’m very thankful for the support I have from those around me. My aim is to maximise this opportunity and I’m really looking forward to it.”

Zhou leads the Formula 2 point standings ahead of fellow Alpine Academy driver and Australian Oscar Piastri.

“I am delighted to see Zhou’s development and progress from when he first set foot in the Academy in 2019 to having his first official FP1 session this weekend at the Austrian Grand Prix in Formula 1.” said Mia Sharizman, Alpine Academy Director.

“It has been a long but rewarding process with Zhou putting the hard work in behind the scenes to get to this point in his career.”

“The fact that he is now leading the Formula 2 Championship is proof of this hard work and dedication and we are all looking forward to seeing him in a Formula 1 car this weekend.”

Formula 1 action at the Red Bull Ring resumes on Friday with two practice sessions ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix.

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