Zhou Guanyu, a driver from China, expressed optimism about Sauber’s 2024 Formula 1 car following their performance in Sprint Qualifying at the Chinese Grand Prix. Zhou had previously struggled in qualifying but managed to advance to the final stage using the Medium compound. Unfortunately, rain hindered their progress, and both Zhou and Valtteri Bottas ended up at the back of the grid in the challenging session. Zhou believes that they could have done better if the conditions were dry. Despite the setback, Zhou is pleased with the day and grateful for the support from the fans.
Sauber has yet to score points in the first four races of the season, but both drivers are starting the race within reach of the points positions. However, Zhou is cautious about their chances of cracking the top eight, as their direct rivals have shown stronger race pace. Nevertheless, Zhou is determined to give their all in the Sprint race and is hopeful that anything can happen.
Bottas, who will start from ninth, has also faced challenges due to Sauber’s pit-stop struggles. However, he remains confident in the team’s competitiveness and is pleased with their performance in mixed conditions. Bottas congratulated Zhou for making it into the top 10 and expressed his happiness for the Chinese fans.
Looking ahead to the Sprint race, Bottas admitted that it is difficult to gauge Sauber’s race pace based on just one practice session. However, he is encouraged by their performance in single-lap runs and their ability to be competitive in different conditions. Bottas is optimistic about the rest of the weekend.