Source: REUTERS/RULA ROUHANA
[Saba Sports News] In a special New Year program called “China
UP!” aired by CCTV News, the growth story of Zhou Guanyu, China’s first
Formula One driver, was introduced to fans. With a history spanning over 70
years, the World Formula One Championship is one of the three major global
events alongside the Olympic Games and the World Cup. Throughout this long
history, there has never been a Chinese driver in Formula One, until Zhou
Guanyu broke this barrier. Zhou Guanyu emphasized that driving an F1 car
requires professional training, and ordinary people would not be able to handle
it. Depressing the brake pedal in an F1 car is equivalent to kicking off a
100-kilogram iron block in the gym. When making turns at an average speed of
200 kilometers per hour, the centrifugal force endured is comparable to hanging
a 20-kilogram iron block on the cervical spine. Individuals who haven’t
undergone rigorous training may experience symptoms such as blurred vision,
tinnitus, or even fainting under such conditions. To become an F1 driver, one
must obtain a “super license.” This license requires drivers to earn
40 points within three seasons, and winning championships is the most effective
way to accumulate points. Through relentless efforts, Zhou Guanyu secured the
annual championship in the Asian F3 Championship and finished third in the F2
Championship in 2021. With the “super driver’s license” in hand, Zhou
Guanyu now has the qualifications to compete against dozens of the world’s top
drivers in Formula One races. With his sights set on becoming a top contender
in the world of Formula One, Zhou Guanyu aims to bring glory to China and leave
a lasting impact on the sport.