P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Zhou Guanyu has conceded he was not expecting the news that Nico Hulkenberg will be joining Stake F1, but believes the team remains an option for him and team-mate Valtteri Bottas for next season.
Zhou Guanyu expressed surprise at Nico Hulkenberg’s early announcement of moving to Stake F1 but still considers the team an option for him next season, despite only one seat being available. The news of Hulkenberg’s arrival ahead of Audi’s transition in 2026 means either Zhou or teammate Valtteri Bottas will have to seek new opportunities. The uncertainty also surrounds outgoing Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz potentially joining the Swiss team. Zhou remains focused on his current team and proving himself for the future, acknowledging Andreas Seidl is considering various options. Despite narrowly missing his first points of the season in the Chinese Grand Prix, Zhou feels comfortable staying on the grid and is exploring potential opportunities, including a return to Alpine as a former Renault junior.
