周冠宇

F1 racing driver Zhou Guanyu has pledged his support to creating more sporting opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) by becoming a Global Ambassador for Special Olympics. Born in Shanghai, China, but based in Great Britain, 24-year-old Guanyu is the first driver from China to become a Grand Prix starter after making his debut for Alfa Romeo in 2022, having previously raced in F4, F3, and F2.

"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Zhou Guanyu as a Global Ambassador, as he joins us in spreading awareness about the profound impact sports can have in fostering genuine social inclusion," said Mary Davis, CEO, Special Olympics International. "We share his vision in helping to create a world where inclusivity knows no boundaries, driven by the unifying spirit of sports. Together, we will amplify our message and inspire others to join our cause, continuing to ignite a global movement towards a truly inclusive society."

As part of the launch of his inaugural two-year term as a Global Ambassador, last week Guanyu welcomed Special Olympics Great Britain athletes to the paddock at Silverstone and gave them an exclusive look behind the scenes ahead of the British Grand Prix.

"It's a huge honour to become a Global Ambassador for Special Olympics," said Zhou Guanyu. "I've recently met with and watched several athletes from around the world compete. To learn more about their passion for their sport and see the friendship and warmth that they show for their competitors in their Special Olympics family, was inspiring. Everyone deserves the right to shine and to fulfil their potential and I'm thrilled to become part of such a great sporting and inclusion movement."

The F1 driver has also taken part in a Zoom meeting with athletes and recently visited the 2023 Special Olympics World Games Berlin, where he watched competitions and met Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger and former Special Olympics Great Britain Athlete Leadership Team Chair Ian Harper along with athletes from the Special Olympics China delegation.

Sargent Shriver International Global Messenger and Special Olympics Great Britain athlete Ian Harper said, "It was fantastic to meet Zhou in Berlin. He's worked very hard to become China's first F1 driver, and his story can be an inspiration to all of us in what you can achieve when you are so committed to your goal.

"It's clear that he wants to bring an even greater profile to the work of Special Olympics in the countries that he races in around the world and, at just 24-years-old, he has a very exciting career ahead of him. Everyone in the Special Olympics movement is very excited to be part of that journey with him."

As a Global Ambassador for Special Olympics, Guanyu joins a list of well-known figures from across the world of sport, entertainment and media, who support the global nonprofit as part of a two-year program.