Zhou just loves his flashy new helmet
Alfa Romeo F1 rookie joins Verstappen with theme designs for Miami Grand Prix
A few drivers will be rocking new Miami-inspired helmets for the inaugural Miami Grand Prix, including China’s Zhou Guanyu.
The Alfa Romeo rookie has embraced his love of basketball for his latest design, giving his legion of fans an exclusive look on social media ahead of the race, set for 3am on Monday morning, Hong Kong time.
“That’s a trip, right? I love it,” Zhou said of his new helmet. “It’s the Miami colour. We have the basketball with my Chinese name on top. I find it very cool. It’s something special with the 3D of 24, I really enjoy it.”
Aside from being Zhou’s permanent number in his F1 career, he chose it as a tribute to the late basketball legend Kobe Bryant, who famously wore No 24 for the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half of his career.
“Kobe Bryant was a great inspiration for me when I was more interested in basketball than in motorsport,” Zhou had told Speedweek website.
“He got up at four in the morning, started exercising, then took his kids to school and continued exercising. In addition, 24 is four times six, and six is a lucky number in my home country.”
Zhou is not the only driver to mix things up in Miami. Reigning world champ Max Verstappen took to social media to reveal his special Miami-inspired theme, which includes a touch of neon and, of course, palm trees.
“A special one for a special weekend,” Verstappen said. “It’s the first time we’re going there, so I’m really excited to be there and I thought why not add a bit of Miami Vice flavour to it? I think it’s one of my favourite ones.”
The award for the most colourful design goes to two-time champion Fernando Alonso with a neon pink ensemble, which has palm trees and flaming sunsets.
Austin, Texas will host another F1 race in October. with Las Vegas added to the calendar next year.
We have the basketball with my Chinese name on top. I find it very cool
ZHOU GUANYU