Former Formula 1 race driver Zhou Guanyu has been confirmed as Cadillac’s reserve driver for the team’s inaugural F1 season in 2026, marking a major step in the American manufacturer’s preparations for its highly anticipated entry into the sport.

The 26-year-old Chinese driver brings recent Formula 1 experience to Cadillac after spending the 2025 season as Ferrari’s reserve driver, following three full campaigns racing with the Alfa Romeo-branded Sauber team from 2022 to 2024.

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Zhou Adds Valuable Experience to Cadillac’s New F1 Project

Zhou will serve as reserve and development support for Cadillac’s race drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, both of whom are set to return to the Formula 1 grid in 2026 after sitting out the 2025 season.

Bottas is a familiar figure for Zhou, having been his teammate during their time together at Alfa Romeo, where the pair worked closely during a challenging transitional period for the Swiss-based team.

Cadillac’s leadership sees Zhou’s recent F1 mileage as a crucial asset as the team prepares to navigate the complexities of entering the championship under all-new 2026 technical regulations.

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Cadillac’s Expanding Driver Line-Up

In addition to Bottas, Perez and Zhou, Cadillac have also signed former IndyCar star Colton Herta, who is currently competing in Formula 2. Herta’s goal is to earn enough FIA Super Licence points to become eligible for a future Formula 1 race seat with the team.

This multi-layered driver strategy highlights Cadillac’s long-term approach, blending experienced Grand Prix winners with emerging talent as the project evolves.

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Zhou: “This Feels Like Rejoining Family”

Zhou, who is managed by Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon, said the opportunity to join the new F1 outfit was both exciting and personal.

“This is one of the biggest and most exciting new projects that the sport has ever seen,” Zhou said.
“I have worked with both Graeme and Valtteri for many years in various capacities, so joining the team feels like rejoining family.”

Zhou’s role will include simulator work, car development input, testing support and standing by as race replacement if required during the season.

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Lowdon Praises Zhou’s Fit for the Role

Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon explained why Zhou was the ideal candidate for the reserve role as the team builds its foundations.

“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 said.
“Zhou fits the bill perfectly. He will be a great asset to us as we go racing in 2026.”

Lowdon’s existing working relationship with Zhou was also a key factor in the appointment, ensuring immediate integration into the team’s culture and processes.

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Ferrari Engines Before Cadillac’s Own Power Unit

Cadillac will initially run Ferrari power units when they enter Formula 1 in 2026. The team plans to transition to a fully in-house engine programme by 2029, with development already underway at General Motors’ Charlotte, North Carolina facility.

The long-term commitment underlines General Motors’ ambition to establish Cadillac as a fully independent works team in Formula 1.

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A Milestone for Chinese Motorsport Representation

Zhou’s continued presence in Formula 1 structures is significant for the sport’s global reach, particularly in China, where he became the country’s first-ever F1 race driver when he debuted in 2022.

Although no longer a full-time race driver, his role at Cadillac ensures Chinese representation remains part of the F1 paddock as the sport enters a new era.