Carlos Sainz followed his gut feeling when deciding to join Williams, drawing parallels with McLaren. "Ultimately, these two factors convinced me to have faith in Williams and become part of the team."

Carlos Sainz has disclosed that his experience with McLaren influenced his choice to sign with Williams, acknowledging that he had to rely on his intuition.

Carlos Sainz is set to join the Williams team for the 2025 season following the loss of his position at Ferrari, which

The Spanish driver had multiple teams interested in him for the next season, despite being passed over by both Mercedes and Red Bull.

According to reports, Alpine showed interest in Sainz for a longer-term contract, and there were already connections to Audi prior to Hamilton's surprising announcement.

Sainz decided to join Williams as he was convinced by James Vowles’ strategic plan for the team and the advancements being made internally.

During his initial trip to the Williams factory located in Grove, Sainz discussed his choice to become part of one of Formula 1’s legendary teams.

In an interview with Vowles on the Williams YouTube channel, Sainz expressed that the immediate future was not his main focus when he faced making such a crucial decision.

"I concentrated on figuring out which team would have the advantage in speed by 2025. I wanted to know which team was developing more downforce and who was discovering new ways to enhance their speed. In the end, I understood that my choice needed to revolve around two main factors: the project and the individuals involved."

"When I began having more in-depth conversations with James, it became clear to me that he had developed a robust project at Williams."

He was assembling a group with a clear vision and plan alongside Dorilton, which I believe will propel this team to the forefront. His strong leadership and compelling vision instantly made me enthusiastic about the project and confident in his guidance.

Sainz draws parallels to McLaren

Before joining Ferrari, Sainz had a two-year tenure with McLaren.

While at Woking, McLaren made significant advancements in the rankings, securing fourth place in 2019 and improving to third place in 2020.

Carlos Sainz believed that McLaren had the potential to become world champions after he departed from the team, a prediction that was realized in 2024.

He continued by emphasizing that ultimately, it's all about the people involved. Reflecting on his departure from McLaren, he expressed his belief that there were truly talented individuals within the team, and he was confident they had the potential to become world champions one day.

"Last year, McLaren secured the world championship, prompting me to think, 'Alright, I should follow my gut feeling.' I am aware that Williams has a strong plan in place. They possess the necessary support and have talented individuals on their team."

"Ultimately, the blend of these two factors convinced me to put my faith in Williams and become a part of your team."

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Ferrari employees have received a €14,400 bonus following a year in which the company achieved unprecedented profits.

Five thousand Ferrari employees received a bonus of €14,400 each following the Italian luxury automobile manufacturer's higher-than-anticipated profits in 2024.

On Tuesday, ANSA reported that Ferrari's CEO, Benedetto Vigna, revealed an increased bonus amounting to €900 more than the €13,500 distributed in 2023.

This development follows a 21% increase in Ferrari's net earnings in 2024, reaching €1.53 billion.

In 2023, Ferrari experienced its most profitable year to date.

Due to their substantial earnings, Ferrari plans to update their goals for 2025.

In the course of the announcement, Vigna revealed that this year would see the introduction of six new Ferrari models, among which will be Ferrari's inaugural electric vehicle.

"We've always discussed adding electric options rather than completely transitioning to them," Vigna stated.

"We are not abandoning one option for another; instead, we are introducing the fully electric vehicle alongside our existing thermal and hybrid models. We are moving forward according to our original plan."

The Ferrari Formula 1 team has gained a significant advantage with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton joining them for the 2025 season.

Ferrari's stock value surged over 10%, reaching an all-time high on the New York Stock Exchange following the surprising announcement of Hamilton joining the Scuderia in February.

This led to a nearly $7 billion rise in the value of Ferrari's company.

The surge in Ferrari's market value underscored the broader effects of Hamilton's choice to leave Mercedes after a 12-year tenure and become a part of Formula 1's legendary team.

Hamilton is deeply involved in a comprehensive pre-season testing schedule with Ferrari as he prepares to make his debut with the team at the grand prix season opener in Australia on March 16.

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Aston Martin announces the unveiling date for Fernando Alonso's 2025 Formula 1 car. The company shares its schedule for the 2025 launch.

Aston Martin has announced that they will unveil their 2025 Formula 1 car on February 23, ahead of its debut on the track in Bahrain.

All ten teams are set to attend F1 75 Live at the O2 in London on February 18, where it is anticipated that they will display their liveries instead of unveiling their new car models.

Aston Martin has announced that their latest vehicle will be revealed just five days following the main launch event for F1.

On February 24, Aston Martin will make its debut on the track during a promotional event at the Bahrain International Circuit.

This event is set to happen only 48 hours ahead of the pre-season testing in Bahrain.

Aston Martin's Outlook for 2025

In the 2025 Formula 1 season, Aston Martin is among the only two teams that have decided to keep both of their current drivers.

Fernando Alonso, who has clinched the F1 world champion title twice, continues to partner with Lance Stroll

Considering their performance last year, it seems improbable that they will compete at the forefront.

In the initial months of 2024, Aston Martin was able to hold its own against Mercedes, McLaren, and Ferrari, but their performance soon declined.

In 2023, they faced difficulties improving their car during the season, which led to a decline in their rankings.

As 2026 approaches with adjustments to the regulations, Aston Martin might decide to shift their attention away from this year's efforts to prioritize the next season's preparations.

Adrian Newey will start his role as the new managing technical partner on March 3, directing his attention to the team's projects for 2026.

Andy Cowell has taken on the role of team principal for the upcoming season, while Mike Krack will shift to a position that involves working at the track.

Enrico Cardile holds the position of technical director at Aston Martin, after transitioning from his previous role at Ferrari.

Given the strong end-of-season performances by Alpine and Haas in 2024, Aston Martin might not maintain their recent position of fifth in the constructors' championship and could potentially finish lower.

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Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso face setback at Le Mans due to Jos Verstappen

Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso are seeking a partner to join them in the Le Mans race.

Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso are looking for a third team member to join them in their goal of racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans as a team.

Champion drivers Verstappen and Alonso have shown interest in teaming up for the renowned endurance race in the future.

There were plans to create a team of three drivers, including Max Verstappen's father, Jos. However, after Jos, a former Formula 1 driver, indicated that he no longer wishes to compete at Le Mans, the team is now looking for someone to take his place.

Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion who has never participated in the iconic race, has announced that they are currently looking for an additional driver to take over for his father.

Max Verstappen mentioned to Mirror Sport that although they are aware of their desire to pursue it, his father Jos, despite still having the skills, simply has no interest in continuing with it.

"It's okay, let's wait and find out what unfolds. Plenty of outcomes are possible. There are several excellent drivers to choose from. I also have many friends in the racing world, making it a tough decision to select just one."

Last year, Verstappen disclosed that Alonso, who drives for Aston Martin, was keen on joining him as a teammate for a possible Le Mans challenge.

He expressed a strong desire to participate in Le Mans, stating, "I absolutely want to experience it." Reflecting on past visits when his father competed there, he fondly recalled the incredible atmosphere. The endurance aspect, the large crowds, and the unique experience of driving through the night and witnessing the sunrise were aspects he found particularly appealing.

"I talked with Fernando regarding the matter, and he mentioned that he would only be interested in doing it again if I were involved. That sounds really exciting."

"For the Le Mans race, there's no set minimum weight requirement for drivers. I'm on the heavier side, so I need to team up with lighter drivers to balance it out. Fernando is pretty light, which is great, but we'll still need another light teammate – I'll have to search for one!"

There are ongoing rumors about Red Bull's Verstappen possibly making a surprising move to Aston Martin, where he might team up with two-time world champion Alonso in Formula 1.

A representative from Aston Martin firmly refuted a report by The Daily Mail, which suggested that the team, located in Silverstone, was preparing an enormous £1 billion offer to lure Verstappen, as reported by Crash.net.

Max Verstappen has a contract with Red Bull that runs through the conclusion of 2028, and he has consistently affirmed that he plans to remain with the team.

In the months ahead, his future over the long term is expected to be a major topic of discussion.

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Jean Todt weighs in on the potential benefits of Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari

Jean Todt shares his opinion on Lewis Hamilton's decision to switch to Ferrari.

Ex-Ferrari chief Jean Todt is uncertain whether the team is in a stronger position to compete for Formula 1 world championships with the addition of Lewis Hamilton.

The F1 world has been buzzing since last year when it was revealed that Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, would be making a high-profile move from Mercedes to Ferrari. As the start of his first season with the Scuderia approaches, excitement continues to grow.

The British driver, who is 40 years old, has been intensifying his preparations for the 2025 season. He has been behind the wheel of Ferrari's 2023 and 2024 models as a component of a comprehensive pre-season testing regimen. This initiative aims to familiarize him with the new team and ensure he is ready for the upcoming challenges.

Ferrari is eager to break their 17-year drought and claim a world title after narrowly missing out on last year's constructors' championship to McLaren by a margin of only 14 points. In a significant team change, Hamilton has taken over the spot previously held by Carlos Sainz, who has now joined Williams.

However, the former team leader and ex-FIA president, Todt, remains skeptical that Hamilton joining Ferrari will be the crucial factor in reigniting their success.

When asked what's preventing Ferrari from winning, he mentioned that they are only lacking a small amount, emphasizing that they've nearly succeeded in the past, according to an interview with Italy's La Repubblica newspaper.

"The team had a strong combination with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz; their loss wasn't due to the drivers' performance."

"Clearly, the roster is still high-caliber, even with Hamilton included."

"Is it going to outperform the last one? I really don't know; we'll need to evaluate how the car performs."

Hamilton joining forces with Charles Leclerc in 2025 is set to give Ferrari one of the most formidable driver pairings in Formula 1.

However, Todt believes that Leclerc, who has won eight grand prix races, will not be intimidated by the challenge of competing against one of the most legendary drivers in Formula 1 history.

In contrast, Todt thinks that Leclerc will be driven to enhance his performance further.

Todt expressed that he believes Hamilton will not have an impact on Leclerc.

"Charles might find this as a chance to boost his motivation, similar to how George Russell felt at Mercedes."

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Valtteri Bottas disclosed that he had discussions with two different Formula 1 teams regarding a possible seat for the 2025 season before his departure from Sauber.

Valtteri Bottas disclosed that he engaged in discussions with two competing Formula 1 teams prior to losing his position with Sauber for the 2025 season.

A 35-year-old Finnish driver is returning to Mercedes to serve as a reserve driver for the next season, providing support for George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli.

Valtteri Bottas rejoined Mercedes following the loss of his position at Sauber. The team chose to revamp their driver roster for the 2025 season, bringing in Nico Hulkenberg from Haas and the Formula 2 champion, Gabriel Bortoleto.

Valtteri Bottas has revealed that he had discussions with both Williams and Haas while they considered their choices for drivers for the next season.

Bottas shared with RacingNews365 that they had extensive discussions with Williams over an extended period.

"That became my main focus, and earlier this year, we were discussing with Ayao about a potential position with Haas."

"I chose to invest more in the opportunity to join Williams. However, that plan fell through because Carlos, along with the financial benefits he offers, took the spot."

"I ended up being assigned to the Audi project, and although it seemed promising, it appears that the top executives believed a change was necessary, which also affected the driver lineup."

Bottas believed he would play a crucial role in the Audi initiative. He mentioned that he anticipated remaining with Sauber as the Swiss team transitioned into Audi in 2026.

However, it didn't take long for Bottas to realize that Audi's senior executives had begun evaluating other potential candidates.

"As my contract was nearing its conclusion, I began to have many questions about what lay ahead," he stated. "Nevertheless, I remained quite sure that I would continue to be part of the grid, as that appeared to be the situation."

The Audi board will have the final say on selecting future drivers.

"While certain individuals were eager for me to continue, others were looking for a shift and preferred to introduce a new, younger driver."

"It was challenging because I was consistently led to believe, particularly after Mattia became part of the team, that I would be a central figure for the initiative. This made it difficult to fully commit to another opportunity, as I had been assured of having a place."

"Naturally, you’re interested in exploring other options, but you’re not ready to make a decision. So, I found myself simply waiting and thinking, ‘Alright, when are we going to finalize this?’"

"Although everything was settled and documented, the question arose every week."

"When the delay occurred, I realized: 'Alright, something is happening here, and it's likely not in my favor.'"

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Reword

Historic champagne brand to sponsor F1 in 2025

The Formula 1 racing series will be sponsored by a new champagne brand for the 2025 season.

Formula 1 has announced the return of Moët & Chandon as their official champagne sponsor for the 2025 season.

Moët & Chandon's comeback is linked to Formula 1's recently established 10-year "historic" collaboration with LVMH.

Formula 1 has unveiled new collaborations, revealing that Louis Vuitton will be the sponsor for the Australian Grand Prix that kicks off the season. Additionally, Rolex has replaced Tag Heuer as the official timekeeping partner.

Moët & Chandon is set to take over from Ferrari Trento as the official sparkling wine sponsor for Formula 1, a role Ferrari Trento had held since 2021

Before then, Moët & Chandon supplied champagne to Formula 1 from 1966 to 1999 and again in 2020.

In 2025, racers who make it to the podium will have the opportunity to celebrate with the renowned Moët & Chandon champagne.

In July, they are set to become the main sponsor of the Belgian Grand Prix.

Discussing recent developments, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali remarked, "Celebrating with a toast on the podium is a cherished tradition and a highlight in our sport. We are excited to announce that Moët & Chandon will return as the Official Champagne of Formula 1."

This collaboration honors the shared history, passion, and quality that connect Formula 1 with Moët & Chandon. It represents an ideal blend of achievement and sophistication during this remarkable year, as we mark our 75th anniversary.

"The reappearance of Moët & Chandon on the podium enhances the connection of our creative alliance with LVMH, and we are eagerly anticipating celebrating this remarkable partnership together."

Sibylle Scherer, the CEO of Moët & Chandon, expressed their excitement and pride in rejoining Formula 1 as the Official Champagne. She highlighted the long-standing partnership that dates back to the 1950s, emphasizing the common values of remarkable collaboration, meticulous precision, and a relentless quest for excellence that unite both the world of motorsport and their champagne craftsmanship.

This collaboration celebrates the harmony and collective successes of passionate drivers, their committed crews, and the worldwide supporters who cheer them on.

Moët & Chandon steps up to the podium once more, enthusiastically dedicating itself to creating celebratory experiences for everyone who is a part of this remarkable journey.

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Lewis Hamilton has offered a farewell present to each of the 3,000 employees he used to work with at Mercedes F1.

Lewis Hamilton has given a unique present to each of his 3,000 ex-colleagues at Mercedes after leaving the Formula 1 team.

It has come to light that the seven-time world champion arranged for a unique piece of art to be created as a gesture for his past teammates upon his departure from the Silver Arrows.

Lewis Hamilton, a driver who secured six of his seven world titles in a remarkable 12-year career with Mercedes, made a sensational move to competitor Ferrari this past winter.

The British individual, aged 40, intended to present a unique gift to each employee after his relocation.

Hamilton commissioned famed motorsport artist Paul Oz to create a painting capturing his emotional win at the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix.

Hamilton paid tribute to the late Niki Lauda by dedicating his third win on the Monte Carlo circuit to him, as Lauda had passed away just before that year's event.

Every staff member has been given a copy of the artwork, while the original piece is showcased at the team's headquarters in Brackley.

In a since-deleted Instagram post, Oz mentioned, "I can finally discuss this because it's now common knowledge and all 3,000 staff members at Mercedes GP have received their copies of it."

“In a gesture of class, Lewis personally arranged for this gift to be given to everyone at Mercedes as a farewell tribute.”

"I was instructed to concentrate on the car instead of Lewis. As a result, I decided to depict a scene from the 2019 Monaco Grand Prix, which took place shortly after Niki Lauda's passing. The team honored him by featuring a red halo. During the event, Lewis secured the pole position and led the race to victory."

Hamilton is actively engaged in a comprehensive pre-season testing schedule as he gears up for his first Formula 1 season with Ferrari.

He is set to team up with Charles Leclerc, creating what is considered one of the most formidable driver duos for the 2025 F1 season.

Hamilton is striving to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship with Ferrari, a victory that would propel him past the legendary Michael Schumacher in the historical rankings.

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Cadillac has recruited a seasoned member from Haas to lead their inaugural F1 team as manager.

Cadillac has appointed Peter Crolla, a seasoned veteran from Haas, to be their inaugural Formula 1 team manager.

The team led by General Motors has strengthened its lineup by bringing in Crolla, as they prepare to join Formula 1 as the 11th team in the year 2026.

Crolla became part of the Haas team after leaving McLaren in 2015. Initially, he worked as the team coordinator for the American team. In 2017, he advanced to the role of team manager, and from 2021 to 2022, he took on the responsibilities of trackside operations manager.

He was crucial in collaborating with ex-Haas team leader Guenther Steiner to elevate the team from being at the back of the pack to competing in the midfield.

After leaving Haas at the conclusion of 2024, Crolla has been recruited by Cadillac, representing a major achievement for the team.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, is reportedly close to approving Cadillac's participation in the sport.

Crolla is the newest high-profile addition to the project, coming after F1 veteran Pat Symonds was signed last month.

In a LinkedIn post from last month, Symonds mentioned: "I wasn't certain about what to anticipate."

"This organization is definitely in its early stages, but a handful of crucial team members have been putting in significant effort for more than a year, and their accomplishments are impressive."

"Although I had previous experience collaborating with many of them and was familiar with the caliber of their work, I was nonetheless greatly impressed. It wasn't just the advances made on the car that caught my attention, but also the robust groundwork supporting it."

"I am confident that in 2026, we can have a car on the starting grid that will do justice to both our team and the Formula 1 sport."

In December, it was revealed that Graeme Lowdon, who previously led the Manor F1 team, will take on the role of team principal for Cadillac.

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Cadillac recruits experienced Haas member as inaugural F1 team manager.

Cadillac selects a prominent Haas figure to lead their F1 team as the first manager.

Cadillac has appointed Peter Crolla, a long-time veteran of Haas, as the inaugural team manager for their Formula 1 squad.

The team led by General Motors has strengthened its lineup by bringing Crolla on board, as they prepare to join Formula 1 as the 11th team in 2026.

Crolla became a part of Haas after leaving McLaren in 2015. Initially, he held the role of team coordinator at the American team. In 2017, he advanced to the position of team manager. From 2021 to 2022, he took on the responsibilities of trackside operations manager.

He was crucial in working with former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner to elevate the team from the back of the pack to competing in the middle of the field.

After leaving Haas at the close of 2024, Crolla has been recruited by Cadillac, representing a major achievement for the team.

The FIA, which oversees Formula 1, is reportedly close to approving Cadillac's participation in the sport.

Crolla is the newest prominent figure to participate in the initiative, coming after F1 veteran Pat Symonds, who signed on last month.

In a LinkedIn post from the previous month, Symonds expressed uncertainty about what was to come.

This initiative is still in its early stages, yet several important individuals have been diligently putting in effort for more than a year, and their accomplishments are truly impressive.

"Despite having collaborated with many of them previously and being familiar with the caliber of their work, I was still greatly impressed. It wasn't just the advancements on the car that caught my attention, but also the strong groundwork supporting it."

"I am confident that we can have a car ready for the 2026 grid that will do justice to both the team and Formula 1 as a whole."

In December, news broke that Graeme Lowdon, who previously led Manor F1, will take on the role of team principal at Cadillac.

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Re

Famed Brawn GP Car That Won F1 Title to Be Auctioned

A notable F1 championship car is now available for purchase…

The legendary Brawn GP F1 car, which Jenson Button drove to win the championship in 2009, is set to be auctioned off during the Miami Grand Prix later this year.

The vehicle, belonging to Button and presented to him after his notable 2009 season, has been included in his private collection.

Bonhams is set to oversee the auction event taking place in Miami.

In 2009, Button's victory was a story straight out of a fairy tale. The team, established by the iconic Formula 1 leader Ross Brawn, emerged after Honda unexpectedly decided to leave the sport at the close of 2008.

Operating with limited financial resources, Brawn GP arrived at the opening race with the quickest car and secured both first and second places.

In their sole season in Formula 1, the team secured the constructors' championship before being succeeded by Mercedes.

With one race remaining, Button secured the championship title, surpassing Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull in the overall rankings.

The chassis available for purchase is numbered 001/01, and it was used by Rubens Barrichello during the initial races of the season.

Commenting on the auction, Louis Frankel from Bonhams Cars described the vehicle as the pinnacle of a Formula 1 success story, highlighting its groundbreaking design that changed the limits of what could be achieved.

Chassis 001/01 represents a significant part of motorsport history, and its availability at auction is likely to attract the attention of collectors from around the globe.

"We are thrilled to offer this unique chance during the Miami Grand Prix, an event truly worthy of its iconic reputation."

The priciest F1 vehicles ever sold

The Brawn GP car is not expected to reach the unprecedented sale figures seen earlier this year.

The Mercedes W196R was auctioned off for £42.7 million during an event organized by RM Sotheby’s at the Mercedes headquarters in Stuttgart.

In a not-so-close second place is a different W196R, which was piloted by the legendary Formula 1 driver Juan Manuel Fang

In 2013, it was purchased for £19.6 million.

In 2023, the W04, which was Lewis Hamilton's debut Formula 1 car with Mercedes, fetched £15.1 million at auction.

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Zhou Guanyu, who was recently let go, has secured a new position with Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Zhou Guanyu has become one of Ferrari's two backup drivers for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Zhou was dropped by Sauber, resulting in him not having a position on the racing lineup.

During his last season with the team, the Chinese driver faced challenges but managed to earn Sauber's sole points by delivering an impressive performance at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Zhou has expressed his ongoing wish to stay involved in Formula 1, despite not securing the second Sauber position, including a reserve role.

He will split responsibilities with Antonio Giovinazzi, as the two will take turns throughout the season.

If Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc are unable to compete in a grand prix weekend, Zhou or Giovinazzi will have the opportunity to step in and drive.

Oliver Bearman took over for Carlos Sainz at the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix when the Spanish driver was hospitalized due to appendicitis.

Ferrari revealed that Zhou Guanyu has been appointed as a reserve driver for Scuderia Ferrari HP. He will join Antonio Giovinazzi, who will remain in the same position.

"For the Chinese racer, it's a return to familiar grounds, having been part of the Scuderia Ferrari Driver Academy for four years, from 2015 to 2018."

Ferrari stated: "Zhou and Antonio Giovinazzi both hold positions as reserve drivers, with Giovinazzi having been involved with Scuderia Ferrari HP since 2017."

The Italian driver will keep competing in the World Endurance Championship, driving the number 51 Ferrari 499P. This is the same car he used to claim victory at the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours race.

Will Zhou make a return to the racing lineup in 2026? Zhou is expected to encounter tough rivals in his bid to rejoin the grid that year.

Ex-teammate Valtteri Bottas, along with Sergio Perez, aims to make a comeback with Cadillac in 2026, and Kevin Magnussen is considered a potential candidate as well.

Cadillac is planning to enter the Formula 1 scene in 2026 as the 11th team and is said to be interested in having an American driver in their lineup.

Consequently, Colton Herta is widely expected to secure one of those positions in 2026.

With Cadillac set to use Ferrari engines in 2026, Zhou's opportunities for a comeback might have received a positive lift.

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