Cadillac Racing announced on January 5 that Zhou Guanyu, China’s first full-time F1 driver, has joined as official reserve driver. He will serve as third driver behind Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. The move follows the conclusion of Zhou’s one-year Ferrari reserve contract announced January 2. Zhou expressed enthusiasm about joining Team Principal Graeme Lowdon and former teammate Bottas, citing his recent experience in car testing and development. Zhou earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2022. The 2026 F1 season begins in March in Melbourne.