Ferrari has appointed Zhou Guanyu as a reserve driver for the 2025 Formula One season after he lost his race seat at Sauber. The Chinese driver, who was previously part of the Ferrari Driver Academy, will share reserve duties with Italian Antonio Giovinazzi, who is also committed to Ferrari’s World Endurance Championship program. This move marks a return to Ferrari’s ranks for Zhou after spending three seasons as a full-time F1 driver.
Zhou made history as China’s first Formula One driver when he debuted with Sauber in 2022. Over three seasons, he competed in 68 grands prix, accumulating 16 championship points and securing two fastest laps. Despite his steady performances, he was unable to retain his seat as Sauber prepares for its transition to becoming Audi’s works team in 2026. His experience in F1 and ties to Ferrari made him a strong candidate for the reserve role.
The opportunity at Ferrari arose after British driver Oliver Bearman, who filled in as a stand-in for three races last season, secured a full-time seat with Haas for 2025. Ferrari-powered Haas opted for Bearman as part of its strategy to develop young talent, creating an opening for Zhou to step in as a reserve. His new role will involve providing support to Ferrari’s race drivers and potentially filling in if needed.
Zhou’s ties extend beyond Ferrari, as he also has a connection to the upcoming Cadillac Formula One project. The General Motors-backed team plans to join F1 in 2026, and Graeme Lowdon, who has been involved in Zhou’s management, serves as the team principal. Cadillac intends to use Ferrari engines and gearboxes until General Motors can develop its own power units, making Zhou’s position within Ferrari even more relevant to his future career prospects.
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