Sauber driver Zhou Guanyu reveals love for WWE wrestler Rey Mysterio at Mexico Grand Prix
ZHOU GUANYU says he loves racing in Mexico City because he is a huge Rey Mysterio fan.
The Chinese Kick Sauber driver, 25, is in awe of WWE’s greatest high-flyer, who wears a Mexican luchador mask, and is known for his signature 619 move.
Stake F1 team Kick SauberZhou Guanyu is a big fan of Rey Mysterio[/caption]
He said: “Since a kid, since I started racing I’ve known him. He was in that prime group of John Cena, all those names.
“I love him, he’s my favourite one by far. I know all his special moves.
“The 619 is my favourite, he puts the other guy in the arena , jumps and then the leg kick from the side then jumps on top then three seconds count down, big fan.”
Zhou slumped to 19th place at the United States Grand Prix last time out, just one place ahead of Lewis Hamilton who retired on the third lap.
But he was all smiles in Mexico City, soaking in the beautifully chaotic fan atmosphere, which the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez is know for.
He said: “I like the tacos here, the food is really good! Strong, spicy sauce but it’s good,
“In general for the whole race itself, the fans at the track make Mexico so special.
“The track is very special in the stadium section. You really feel the atmosphere. They are very passionate about racing.
Zhou Guanyu’s ‘this or that’ Mexican edition
Tequila or Cerveza?
I’d say Tequila. I know it’s stronger but I don’t like beer. It’s too bubbly.
Burritos or Fajitas?
Fajitas!
Sombrero or wrestling mask?
Wrestling mask, I’m a massive Rey Mysterio fan, I love 619!
Halloween or Day of the Dead?
I’d say Halloween, it’s different. It’s a bit more casual, Day of The Dead sounds too much.
“We like to come to places where people understand about racing. You feel in the same boat as them.”
The Chinese driver is one of three on the grid yet to score a point in the 2024 season.
He is currently locked in a desperate battle with team-mate Valtteri Bottas to secure the one remaining Sauber seat for next season.
He added: “I felt the situation was a lot better when I started two years ago, we had a more competitive car. This year has been very tricky for the entire team.
“We all wanted to do well, various issues we have faced. As a package we are not competitive. We are on the back foot compared to our competitors.
“I have improved a lot from two years ago from where I was as a driver but you can’t really see that because of the performance is not there from the car.
“I am a more complete driver now, mental side is a lot stronger and how I deal with situations. “
Zhou has reportedly fielded several ‘very good’ offers outside of F1 if he cannot secure his seat at Sauber next season.
His teammate Bottas is expected to continue with the team next season.
He said: “At the moment, all I can say is that there’s already several very good chances, teams in other series [that have] approached me for a drive for next year,
“But, at the moment, of course, I want to still get the Sauber seat, and if by any chance, I don’t have that, we have to think about the rest [of the options available].”
