Cadillac Fuels Zhou Guanyu Speculation With Cryptic Announcement Teaser

Cadillac has dropped a cryptic social media teaser for an announcement on January 5th, featuring the number 24 and a close-up of a cat's eye. The timing and imagery have immediately fueled speculation that the team is preparing to sign former Ferrari reserve driver Zhou Guanyu in some capacity. The move comes as the American outfit prepares for its highly anticipated Formula 1 debut in 2026 with a lineup of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas.

Why it matters:

For a brand-new team, every move is a statement. Signing a driver like Zhou Guanyu, even in a reserve role, would be a strategic masterstroke, providing the team with an experienced driver and opening a crucial market gateway to China. This early buzz also helps build momentum and fan engagement ahead of their official entry, establishing Cadillac as a serious and savvy player on the grid.

The details:

• Cadillac's post featured the phrase "Reflections of the future" with the date "5 January" and the number "24" prominently displayed.
• Speculation centers on Zhou Guanyu, who races with the number 24 and was just released from his Ferrari reserve driver role for 2025.
• The team's 2026 race line-up is already set with former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez and ex-Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas. Colton Herta is slated to be a reserve driver and compete in F2.
• The announcement will precede the team's official livery reveal, which is set to air during a Super Bowl commercial on February 8th, a move team boss Dan Towriss calls a chance to introduce the team on "a stage that reflects who we are."

What's next:

All eyes will be on Cadillac's official channels on January 5th to see if the fan theories are correct. Following that, the motorsport world will await the Super Bowl on February 8th for the full livery reveal, which will mark the first major visual statement from the newest team on the F1 grid.