Chinese driver Zhou Guanyu is poised to make his on-track debut for Cadillac during a Pirelli tire test in Barcelona, according to a report by GPblog on Wednesday. The reserve driver will pilot the MAC-26 car for the first time at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya after this weekend’s Spanish Grand Prix.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon, who previously served as Zhou’s manager, expressed excitement about the opportunity. “I know he will be thrilled to get into the cockpit because he can finally experience the new car firsthand,” Lowdon said. “He has spent countless hours in the simulator and has attended every Grand Prix. I’ve said from the start that I have witnessed Zhou’s entire F1 journey, and if anything happens to our race drivers, I would not hesitate to put him in the car. Of course, we hope that situation never arises.”
For Zhou, this test marks a crucial milestone after extensive simulator work. Lowdon added, “I believe he will cherish this chance. It’s an excellent opportunity for us to evaluate his performance in real conditions, and I’m confident he will deliver.”
The Chinese driver previously served as a reserve driver for Ferrari last season, gaining valuable simulator experience that laid the foundation for his current role with Cadillac. While Zhou’s ultimate goal remains securing a full-time race seat in F1, competition is fierce—Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas are both under long-term contracts, with Colton Herta also waiting in the wings. Nevertheless, this Barcelona test represents a golden opportunity for Zhou to showcase his skills to the entire paddock.
If he makes the most of it, the test could open new doors for his future. Go, Zhou!
