Reserve driver Guanyu Zhou sets sights on a full‑time F1 seat
Guanyu Zhou, now Cadillac’s 2026 reserve driver, says his ultimate goal is to return to Formula 1 as a full‑time driver. He acknowledges the mental challenge of watching races from the sidelines, but believes the reserve role has already made him a stronger competitor and will position him for a future race seat.
summary: Chinese driver Guanyu Zhou, now Cadillac’s 2026 reserve, says his “ultimate goal” is to return to the grid as a full‑time driver. He reflects on the mental challenges of being a reserve and believes the role is sharpening his skills for a future race seat.
content: Guanyu Zhou, the Chinese driver who spent 2025 as Ferrari’s reserve, has signed on as Cadillac’s reserve for 2026. He says his “ultimate goal” remains a full‑time race seat, and he believes the reserve role is sharpening his skills for a comeback.
Why it matters:
- Zhou is one of the few Chinese drivers to have tasted a full‑time F1 seat; his return would boost the sport’s profile in the world’s biggest automotive market.
- Cadillac’s entry into F1 is still shaping its driver lineup; a proven talent like Zhou offers a low‑risk option for a future seat.
- The mental grind of watching the grid from the sidelines highlights the resilience needed to re‑enter the sport at the top level.
The details:
- 2024: Full‑time with Sauber (soon‑to‑be Audi). The team opted for Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto for 2025.
- 2025: Reserve driver for Ferrari. Gained insight into a top‑tier power unit and data‑driven development.
- 2026: Reserve driver for Cadillac. Works closely with Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez, both of whom missed a season before returning.
- Mental outlook: Zhou says watching races “is challenging” because he sees former rivals competing, but it fuels his desire to prove he still belongs on the grid.
- Self‑assessment: He feels the reserve year has already made him a “better driver,” citing exposure to Mercedes‑powered performance data and race‑weekend routines.
What’s next:
- Zhou plans to showcase his speed in testing and any Friday practice sessions Cadillac offers, aiming to turn data into a compelling case for a race seat.
- If a vacancy opens—whether at Cadillac, a midfield team, or a new entrant—Zhou expects to be ready, having “put the effort in” during the waiting period.
- The driver also hopes his Chinese fanbase will attract sponsor interest, adding commercial appeal to his on‑track credentials.