Horror crash at British Grand Prix silenced Silverstone but Zhou Guanyu still loves it
Zhou Guanyu doesn't know how he survived the the 2022 British Grand Prix - but despite it all he still loves Silverstone.
The Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber driver failed to make it out of turn one when a horrific high-speed multi-car crash swept up his vehicle.
Zhou's car flipped over and skidded on the halo before it reached the gravel, causing it to roll repeatedly and thunder into the fencing and drop behind the barriers.
“I’m so grateful with the safety improvements. What really saved me was the halo,” Zhou told talkSPORT two years on.
Without it, the incident would have been an unthinkable amount worse.
And yet, despite the traumatic incident Zhou has nothing but love for the track he returns to this weekend.
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The 25-year-old pilot retains an infectious enthusiasm for the famous circuit as he banishes the memories from 2022.
He added: “Actually, I was really looking forward to the race last year just because before Silverstone everyone was talking about the crash.
“It was a really big incident that I was involved in but I was glad to complete my first ever British Grand Prix that weekend and all the memories from the first year are out of the way. I can refocus - it’s just another weekend.
“It’s still one of my favourite tracks. I love driving there. I did well there in other categories so I love going there, especially with all the fans. Everybody loves being there.”
Last weekend's clash between Lando Norris and Max Verstappen brought on-track rivalries and respect between drivers back into the spotlight.
But, two years ago, George Russell's actions upon seeing Zhou was trapped in his cockpit leave Zhou in no doubt the drivers are all in it together.
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In 2022 the British star was caught up in the crash but still had a running car.
However, upon seeing the horrifying situation his rival found himself in, he jumped from his Mercedes, ending his race, and dashed over to help.
It's a response Zhou will never forget.
He said: “I’m just really grateful to see him do such a sportsmanlike gesture. Not just because we are friends but the way he was able to do it as he was involved in the incident too.
“He was able to jump out of the car to make sure I was okay. Keeping an eye on me and helping instruct the medical teams to get over there as quick as possible.
“It gave me a really warm feeling. I’m grateful we fight on track, the hardest we can but we have huge respect for each other.”
Last year, Zhou managed P15 at Silverstone but will be hoping for better this time.
He's starting in 14th for the 2024 edition, so the chance of getting points is there.
He does, however recognise how challenging the season has been for Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber.
Zhou is yet to score a single point with P11 in the opening race of the season his best finish.
Nonetheless, he believes the action around him could potentially be key to help him finally get into the top 10.
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He added: “It’s been quite a tough season. Ups and downs. But I think the track layout compared to Barcelona seems to help us pick up a bit of pace.
“Hopefully, we can fight closer to the points and when things happen ahead we can take these opportunities. We need to focus on other things to make sure we don’t make a mistake.”