Renault has appointed Guan Yu Zhou as its development driver in Formula 1, with the Chinese youngster also joining the manufacturer’s academy.
Zhou will this year step up to Formula 2 with the UNI-Virtuosi team that has taken the entry previously held by Russian Time.
Zhou is to carry out simulator duties with Renault and will also participate in engineering briefings.
He was previously part of Ferrari’s young driver scheme and will now make the switch across to the Renault scheme that was revived in 2016.
“It’s a huge honour to join Renault Sport Racing as an Academy member and the Formula 1 Team’s Development Driver and I can’t wait to get started,” said the 19-year-old.
“Renault has big ambitions – both for the Formula 1 team and the Academy – and that’s something which motivates me.
“I know the significance of Renault in China, so I’m especially proud to represent both Renault, as a brand, and China in the racing world. Formula 2 is the next step in my career.
“It looks to be a competitive field of drivers and there is going to be a lot to learn in a short space of time.
“I’ve been working hard during the winter and the three-days Formula 2 testing in Abu Dhabi was hugely beneficial.
“I’m looking forward to drawing on Renault’s help and advice this season as I aim for success and trophies.”
