Carrying it around the world

As we edge closer to the Chinese Grand Prix, Ferrari reserve driver Zhou Guanyu has shared what it’s like to work alongside seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton at the Italian team. Exploring his working relationship with the former Mercedes star, Zhou revealed Hamilton’s love of gaming.

The former Sauber driver secured a reserve driver role after his contract with the Swiss team wasn’t extended. Being part of the Ferrari driver academy, Ferrari was the clear choice for the Chinese driver after his future with Sauber, formerly Alfa Romeo, was blocked by two new drivers: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. 

In an interview with Formula 1, Zhou explored the relationship he’s built with Hamilton in the short time they’ve worked together. 

“He just feels like a team-mate of yours – it’s as simple as that. It’s actually very easy,” Zhou said. “Lewis is a very humble guy, always asking the team for a lot of information.”

This weekend will be a particularly emotional one as he misses out on racing his home race. Fortunately for him, in its place will be an opportunity to learn from his new colleagues.

“Even though he’s been a world champion for so many years, he still wants to improve himself, which for me as a younger driver, I really felt that this is the way to go – also for myself in the future, if I can come back,” Zhou explained.

Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images

Away from the track, both men are keen gamers, with Hamilton enjoying time on Call of Duty on his PlayStation, and Zhou enjoying Counter-Strike via PC. 

“I think Lewis plays different games to me. I think he’s more into Call of Duty and uses the PlayStation a lot, carrying it around the world. I’m more into computers as a Counter-Strike guy,” Zhou said.

In fact, Zhou plays competitively, taking part in a Counter-Strike event in Shanghai at the end of the 2024 season.

“I went straight to the biggest Counter-Strike event, playing in the final stages with multiple world champions,” he shared. “It was a bit like an F1 fan driving a car next to Lewis, that was my feeling! I was very nervous… I wanted to make sure I did well, because I love the game – I wasn’t too bad!”

Photos from Chinese GP – Thursday