From grandstands to grid: Zhou Guanyu's historic homecoming

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From cheering in the stands, flag in hand as a young F1 fan, to making history on the track, local hero Zhou Guanyu dreamt of this moment, and today it becomes reality.

Witnessing the Chinese Grand Prix ignite his passion years ago, the Sauber charger now stands on the cusp of becoming the first ever F1 driver from China to race on home soil.

A momentous occasion is set to unfold, marking not only a personal triumph for Zhou but also a milestone for Chinese motorsport.

From the grandstands to the grid, his journey epitomizes the power of perseverance and the realization of a lifelong aspiration.

Today, Zhou stands not only as a symbol of ambition fulfilled but also as an inspiration for generations to come.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.