At this year’s Singapore Grand Prix, we had the unique pleasure of sitting down with Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber’s Zhou Guanyu, known as one of the most stylish figures in the F1 paddock. In an industry dominated by speed and performance, Zhou’s passion for style bridges the gap between track and trend, making him a standout not only on the grid but also in the world of fashion.
During our conversation, Zhou candidly discussed his laid-back, streetwear-inspired personal style off-track, his love for unisex fashion, and his collaborations with brands like Lululemon. It was refreshing to explore the intersection of motorsport and fashion, as Zhou shared insights into his creative involvement in helmet design and how he navigates the fast-paced F1 lifestyle while staying true to his aesthetic.
HB: How would you describe your personal style off-track?
Zhou: I’d say it’s pretty casual, leaning more towards streetwear. Off-track, I like to wear things that are easy, comfortable, and that help me relax. I’m grateful that I can bring my own interests and style into this platform, and people seem to appreciate it. It’s really just me being myself, and I’ve been doing that from day one. A lot of drivers are starting to express themselves more now.
HB: Would you say you’re one of the more risk-taking drivers when it comes to fashion?
Zhou: For sure. I think Lewis is at the top in that regard, but I’d say I’m right behind him. And now more drivers are embracing fashion on the grid. I think it’s great because it shows that there are other sides to us beyond driving. Fans get to see more of our personalities.
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HB: Has your style evolved since becoming an F1 driver?
Zhou: Not really, it’s stayed the same. If anything, I have less time for it because of how busy my schedule is. But I still make time for things I love, like designing my helmets. I’d say I have about 99% influence over the design of my helmets, especially the special editions, which are really personal to me.
HB: So, would you say you showcase your fashion sense through your helmet designs?
Zhou: Exactly! Aside from the sponsor logos, the helmet is something we can really personalise. I put a lot of thought into the design, making sure it reflects my own ideas and inspirations.
HB: Do you have a favourite designer or brand that you like?
Zhou: Yeah, I love Dior, so I’d say Kim Jones is one of my favourites. I’m also really into Rick Owens and Chrome Hearts. Those are my top three brands.
HB: What’s your earliest fashion memory?
Zhou: My first real fashion memory is from about five years ago, when I attended Milan Fashion Week. It was my first time sitting at a show, seeing the new collections firsthand. It was a really cool experience, and I flew there just for that, which I’d never done before.
Zhou Guanyu ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix 2024
HB: What was the first big luxury item you bought for yourself?
Zhou: I think it was a pair of sneakers. And another memorable purchase of mine was a pair of Dior sneakers from the Year of the Rabbit collection, which felt personal since I was born in the Year of the Rabbit.
HB: Do you follow any fashion rules?
Zhou: Not really. I’m pretty open when it comes to fashion. I think if I ever start designing, I’d like to make unisex pieces, something that anyone can wear. It’s not about breaking rules but making things that are versatile.
HB: You’re wearing the team kit today. If you could redesign it with your own twist, what would you change?
Zhou: I’d probably make the neckline a little wider, just to make it more comfortable and show off any necklaces. Maybe I’d add some personal details on the back, like a Chinese porcelain design or something related to my heritage.
HB: Does sustainability play a role in your fashion choices?
Zhou: I haven’t focused on that yet, but I think it’s something I’ll consider more in the future. The world is moving towards more sustainable options, like paper instead of plastic, and I want to follow that trend while staying creative.
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HB: Are there any style icons or athletes outside of motorsport who inspire your wardrobe?
Zhou: For sneakers, I look at someone like Travis Scott, but otherwise, I’m mainly influenced by the brands I love, like the ones I mentioned earlier. I tend to stick to darker colours, mainly black, but I go bold with shoes. I’m also into silver jewellery right now—maybe I’ll get into gold later in life, but for now, it’s all about silver.
HB: Who do you think are the top five best-dressed drivers on the grid? Feel free to include yourself!
Zhou: The first three I’d say is pretty easy—it’d be Lewis, myself and Pierre. The other two—oh my god. I would still put Valterri in there. It’s a different type of dressing that is so different, but still stylish. I don’t think I could pull it off. And the last one, I’d give it to Charles. He’s gotten a lot better!
HB: One last question: You travel a lot for races. Where’s your favourite place to shop?
Zhou: Las Vegas, for sure. Shanghai is great too, but I usually have things shipped to me there. In Vegas, everything’s so convenient, and I also love Singapore for shopping. Europe has its appeal, but for me, it’s more about streetwear, which I find more in the U.S. and Asia.
