In a significant move for both Zhou Guanyu and Cadillac, it has been confirmed that the former Sauber F1 driver will serve as the reserve driver for the American team in the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season. This announcement marks a pivotal step as Cadillac prepares for its inaugural season in the highly competitive motorsport arena.
This is not just an entry for Zhou, but a return to a familiar environment. Having previously raced for the Alfa Romeo/Kick Sauber team from 2022 to 2024, Zhou brings a wealth of experience to his new role. The team will feature Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as the primary race drivers, while IndyCar veteran Colton Herta will take on the role of test driver.
Throughout his racing career, Zhou participated in 68 Grands Prix, achieving points finishes on seven occasions, including a remarkable debut performance at the Bahrain Grand Prix in 2022. His significant contribution also included securing Kick Sauber’s sole points finish in 2024 during the Qatar race.
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After concluding his time with Sauber, Zhou shifted to a reserve role with Ferrari, where he focused on trackside and simulator work, as well as engaging in the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) programs. This mix of experience is set to be invaluable as he joins Cadillac, with Ferrari providing the power unit and gearbox that will propel the team forward.
Zhou expressed his enthusiasm about this new chapter by stating, “I am delighted to join the Cadillac Formula 1 Team as a Reserve Driver ahead of its Formula 1 debut. This is one of the biggest and most exciting new projects that the sport has ever seen.” The connection he feels with the Cadillac team is rooted in past collaborations. “I have worked with both Graeme [Lowdon] and Valtteri for many years in various capacities, so joining the team feels like rejoining family,” he added.
Zhou’s determination to contribute to the team’s success is clear. “Having had recent experience on track and in developing the cars off track, I know I can add huge value to the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, and I am looking forward to supporting them the best way that I can,” he said.
Team Principal Graeme Lowdon echoed Zhou's sentiments, emphasizing the meticulous approach taken in selecting the reserve driver. “Our process for selecting a Reserve Driver has been as thorough as the search for our Race Drivers. We wanted a candidate who had recent F1 driving experience, is prepared to work hard as part of a team and understands the challenges of developing a car throughout the season,” Lowdon articulated. “Zhou fits the bill perfectly. He will be a great asset to us as we go racing in 2026 and we look forward to him being an integral part of our team.”
Dan Towriss, the CEO of Cadillac Formula 1 Team Holdings, also welcomed Zhou enthusiastically. “I’m excited to welcome Zhou to Cadillac Formula 1 Team. He will be an excellent addition to complement Valtteri and Checo; talented, personable and respectful of the hard work and commitment it will take for us to achieve our ambitions,” Towriss remarked.
As the team gears up for their debut season, he expressed confidence in the driver lineup, noting, “I’m excited by our complete driver line-up – alongside Colton, we have a hungry, fast and collaborative group to make our 2026 debut.”