Zhou Guanyu is still locked in talks with the Alfa Romeo F1 team regarding his seat with the Hinwil squad in 2024, but the Chinese driver believes a new deal is on the horizon.
Zhou has acquitted himself well since his graduation to F1 with Alfa in 2022, the 24-year-old consistently qualifying and racing on a par with teammate Valtteri Bottas.
But recently, rumors have emerged that Zhou's major financial package, which has benefitted the Alfa team in the past two seasons, will be significantly reduced for 2024.
Earlier this summer, Alfa Romeo F1 director Alessandro Alunni Bravi suggested that the Swiss outfit wanted to retain its current driver-line-up as it would be in the best interest of all parties.
But Zhou's dwindling budget could encourage Alfa to negotiate with other drivers.
Aston Martin reserve Felipe Drugovich has been singled out as a potential candidate for Zhou's seat, as have been Sauber junior Théo Pourchaire and Mercedes reserve Mick Schumacher, whose name might appeal to the team's future owner Audi.
©AlfaRomeo
However, Zhou is confident that a new multi-year deal with Alfa Romeo F1 is around the corner.
"It's a little bit [more] delayed than I expected. But I think it’s just due to me, together with Alfa Romeo, trying to figure out these final details.
"In terms of, let's say, ‘Why don't you sign?’ I still have no answer to that. But we're definitely talking more into that and getting more close to being done.
"I'm happy to be together, spending more and more years together with this team. The future is bright for where the team is heading."
Zhou also addressed the speculation regarding his apparent lack of funding for 2024.
"I have personal sponsors and I don't know the rumours, but I don't feel I'm lacking any foundations on that side," he said.
"It's not like the first contract you have in Formula 1 - everything's up to the team. The second one is a bit more into details.
"Nothing to be worried about majorly. I don't feel like what I show on track doesn't deserve to continue being in this paddock."
Zhou insisted that securing his seat with Alfa for next season is his top priority, suggesting that he had not held any discussions with any other teams.
"At the minute [Alfa] is the priority. There's not a lot of seats that's available. I'm very keen on staying where I am," he concluded.
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