Chinese F1 driver Zhou looking forward to Australian Grand Prix

SHANGHAI -- As soon as the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix concluded, Chinese Formula 1 driver Zhou Guanyu devoted himself to the preparation for the next stop in Melbourne, Australia.

"I expect the next race a lot," said Zhou. "I did not take any break. Instead, I went to the factory to train in the simulator immediately."

"Only results speak in a competition," Zhou noted.

Zhou made history at the Bahrain Grand Prix, not only becoming the first Chinese driver to race in F1, but also joining a select band of drivers to score championship points on their debut.

"I will use time and efforts to prove that I deserve my spot in F1," said the 22-year-old.

Zhou, who started 12th in Saudi Arabia but dropped to the back of the field after a poor start, described the situation as "acceptable."

"Compared with veterans, I do have large gap in start, but we have found effective solutions."

He told Xinhua he is communicating with the engineers of Ferrari, engine suppliers to Alfa Romeo, to improve his start in the race. "I believe many problems will be solved before the race in Australia," he said.

Zhou was given a five-second stop-and-go penalty for overtaking Alexander Albon off track and a second drive-through penalty after the front jackman touched his car when he was serving the first one, before finishing 11th eventually.

Despite the costly miscommunication, he thought in general he cooperated well with his team.

"What I can do after a race is to encourage the staff who made mistakes and let them not be too depressed."

Zhou said his goal is to score points. "I have a lot of potential and will enhance my competitiveness in the future," he said.

Zhou will compete in the Australian Grand Prix at Melbourne's Albert Park on April 10.