Aston Martin has officially announced the signing of a young 17-year-old Chinese driver for its Young Drivers Academy, which will join the Spanish Mari Boya, in its search to have the best promises from around the world in its ranks.
“The Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 team is pleased to announce that Zhenrui Chi has joined their Pilot Academy. The 17-year-old, considered one of China’s most promising young drivers, becomes the latest addition to the Academy’s growing roster of drivers, as the team continues to strengthen its long-term program for developing emerging talent across the global motorsport landscape,” the Silverstone team’s statement said.
“As a member of the team’s Driver Academy, Zhenrui will compete with a car in the colors of Aston Martin Aramco, introducing the brand’s iconic green to the Formula Regiona gridl”.
“Zhenrui’s addition follows a thorough selection process carried out by the team’s Driver Academy programme, which began with his participation in the evaluation day at Mugello, before following up his impressive 2025 season. Throughout the season, he demonstrated consistent pace and race ability in the European and Middle Eastern F4 categories, delivering a series of standout performances that showcased his talent.”
“As part of the Aston Martin Aramco Pilot AcademyZhenrui will participate in a personalized development program designed to support every aspect of his progression in motorsport. “The program includes mentoring in racing techniques by experienced team personnel, both on the track and at the AMR Technology Campus, physical preparation and specific training in media and communication to prepare you for the demands of professional motorsport.”
Chi, Aston Martin’s new signing, at the entrance to the factory in Silverstone.
Zhenrui Chi: “Joining the Aston Martin Aramco Formula 1 Team family is a great honor for me. It is a great responsibility, but also an incredible opportunity and motivation to continue improving myself. Knowing that I have the support of such an iconic team, with all its experience and knowledge, gives me a lot of confidence for the path ahead. I know that the path will require hard work and dedication, and I am fully aware that I must continue to prove that I deserve this opportunity. “I am ready to give it my all and I am looking forward to starting this adventure with Aston Martin Aramco.”