Zhou Guanyu’s $30 million backing makes him surprise Haas F1 contender

Current Sauber F1 driver Zhou Guanyu has emerged as a surprising option to join the Haas team for the 2025 season, prompted by significant financial backing. According to German newspaper AMuS, Zhou is one of several candidates being considered by the American team.

While Oliver Bearman has only been confirmed at Haas for next year, the identity of his teammate still remains a mystery. Zhou, with an estimated $35–40 million in sponsorship from Chinese backers, has become an attractive choice for the team. This significant financial contribution would not only ease Haas’ economic pressures but also open new doors to the lucrative Chinese market.

Despite Zhou’s on-track struggles, Sauber’s overall performance has also fallen short of expectations, with teammate Valtteri Bottas similarly unable to score points in the first nine races of the year. Zhou’s arrival at Haas could bring not only a financial injection but also significant commercial and marketing opportunities.

However, the competition for the place at Haas is intense. Esteban Ocon is being considered even after announcing his departure from Alpine. Ocon is a strong candidate due to his experience and ability and is being considered by Haas and Audi, depending on the moves of other drivers such as Carlos Sainz.

For Zhou, a return to Alpine is also on the cards. He spent several years in the French team’s driver academy before joining Sauber in 2022. His links to the Chinese market would be very attractive to a manufacturer like Alpine/Renault looking to expand its global presence. Alpine is currently considering other options, such as Jack Doohan and Mick Schumacher, to form its team.

Competition for places in Formula 1 is more intense than ever, and Zhou Guanyu, with his considerable financial backing, finds himself in a unique position. His ability to attract investment and expand his fan base in China could be the difference that guarantees his stay in Formula 1, whether with Haas or another team.

With teams looking to balance performance and financial sustainability, Zhou’s situation illustrates the complexity of decisions in the world of Formula 1. Strong financial backing combined with potential market expansion puts Zhou in a strategic position that could redefine the future of Formula 1. The final decision by Haas and other interested teams will be crucial not only for Zhou but also for the commercial and competitive dynamics of Formula 1 in the coming years.

While Zhou faces stiff competition to secure his place on the grid, his considerable financial backing and market potential make him an intriguing and valuable candidate for Haas and other Formula 1 teams.