Former Sauber Formula 1 driver Zhou Guanyu has been confirmed as Cadillac’s reserve driver as the American manufacturer continues to build its squad ahead of its first season in Formula 1.
Cadillac has officially announced the signing of Zhou Guanyu to its expanding driver roster for 2026. The Chinese driver becomes the latest addition to the team’s structure, which will see Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez lead the effort as race drivers, while ex-IndyCar competitor Colton Herta takes on test duties.
Zhou spent three seasons on the F1 grid with the Alfa Romeo/Kick Sauber team between 2022 and 2024. Across that spell, he made 68 Grand Prix starts and scored points on seven occasions, memorably finishing in the top 10 on his Formula 1 debut at the 2022 Bahrain Grand Prix. He also delivered Kick Sauber’s only points result of the 2024 campaign with a strong performance in Qatar.
Zhou Guanyu
F1 Debut 2022 Bahrain Grand Prix
Current/Last Team Sauber
At the conclusion of the 2024 season, Zhou stepped away from the Sauber line-up. As China’s first – and still only – Formula 1 driver, he then joined Ferrari in a reserve capacity, contributing through simulator and trackside responsibilities while also taking part in the Scuderia’s Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) programme.
That recent development experience will now be carried over to Cadillac, which will run Ferrari power units and gearboxes when it enters the championship in 2026.
“I am delighted to join the Cadillac Formula 1 Team as a Reserve Driver ahead of its Formula 1 debut,” said Zhou. “This is one of the biggest and most exciting new projects that the sport has ever seen.
“I have worked with both Graeme [Lowdon] and Valtteri for many years in various capacities, so joining the team feels like rejoining family. 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.”
Cadillac Team Principal Graeme Lowdon highlighted the importance of experience and work ethic in the decision-making process.
“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 explained.
“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, CEO of Cadillac Formula 1 Team Holdings, also welcomed Zhou’s arrival, underlining the strength of the team’s overall driver group.
“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.
“I’m excited by our complete driver line-up – alongside Colton, we have a hungry, fast and collaborative group to make our 2026 debut.”
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