Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team Signs Rising Chinese Talent Zhenrui Chi to Driver Academy

Silverstone, UK, April 22, 2026: Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team has officially announced the signing of 17-year-old Chinese racing prodigy Zhenrui Chi to its prestigious Driver Academy, reinforcing the team’s long-term commitment to nurturing global motorsport talent.

A New Star in the Aston Martin Pipeline

Zhenrui Chi, widely regarded as one of China’s most promising young drivers, becomes the latest addition to the Silverstone-based outfit’s expanding junior programme. As part of the Academy, he will compete in Formula Regional machinery featuring Aston Martin’s iconic green livery, marking a significant step forward in his racing career.

Impressive Junior Career and Selection Process

Chi’s inclusion follows a rigorous evaluation process conducted by the Driver Academy. The team first assessed him during a test at Mugello Circuit, before closely monitoring his performances throughout the 2025 season.

He impressed with consistent front-running pace and strong racecraft across both European and Middle Eastern F4 championships. Notably, Chi secured a dominant victory and fastest lap at Monza in the Italian F4 Championship, along with multiple podium finishes.

His 2025 campaign also included appearances in:

• Euro 4 Championship
• Formula Regional European Championship
• Macau Grand Prix

Comprehensive Development Programme

As part of the Aston Martin Aramco Driver Academy, Chi will undergo a structured and holistic development programme. This includes:

• Racecraft mentorship from experienced engineers and drivers
• Simulator and trackside training at the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone
• Physical conditioning and performance coaching
• Media and communications training to prepare for top-tier motorsport

Driver and Team Reactions

Speaking on the milestone, Zhenrui Chi expressed his excitement about joining the team, calling it a “huge honour” and a major opportunity to grow within one of Formula One’s most iconic brands.

Meanwhile, Racing Director Nuno Pinto highlighted Chi’s standout ability, consistency, and mindset, noting that he perfectly fits the Academy’s vision of identifying and developing elite young talent.

Strengthening Aston Martin’s Future Talent Strategy

The addition of Zhenrui Chi underlines Aston Martin’s continued investment in grassroots motorsport and its ambition to build a robust global talent pipeline. With access to world-class facilities and expertise at Silverstone, the team aims to shape Chi into a future contender at the highest levels of racing.