Another Formula 1 team has reportedly entered the race to secure Guanyu Zhou for the 2025 season.
The Chinese driver, who—like Valtteri Bottas—will compete in his final race for Audi-Sauber in Abu Dhabi, revealed earlier in Qatar that Ferrari is "very interested" in offering him a reserve driver position for the upcoming season.
Zhou also hinted that he has attracted attention from other teams. According to Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, Red Bull is one of the most prominent teams showing interest.
The magazine suggests that Red Bull is particularly keen on Zhou due to the substantial financial backing from Chinese sponsors that he brings, reportedly worth tens of millions annually.
This sponsorship could help Red Bull establish a 'TPC' test program, with TPC standing for 'Testing of Previous Cars.' Under current F1 regulations, teams can conduct track testing using cars that are at least two years old.
Red Bull is reportedly planning to prepare a 2023-spec car for such tests, a step the team has avoided in the past due to the significant costs associated with Honda engines.
"But the competition has shown that this preparation for junior drivers has become indispensable," wrote Auto Motor und Sport journalist Michael Schmidt.
"In order to finance the tests, Red Bull is in talks with Guanyu Zhou, who dreams of jumping back on the Formula 1 train in 2026. The Chinese driver wants to keep fit with TPC tests," Schmidt added.
The program would also allow Red Bull to provide valuable track experience for its young talent. Arvid Lindblad, the 17-year-old driver moving from Formula 3 to Formula 2 next year, is expected to be a key participant in the initiative.
