Ferrari part ways with reserve driver Zhou Guanyu after one season
The world of Formula 1 is always filled with surprises, and the latest news from the Ferrari camp is no exception. In a move that has left many fans and pundits alike scratching their heads, Ferrari have officially parted ways with reserve driver Zhou Guanyu ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. This decision leaves Guanyu without a race seat for the upcoming season, and it will be interesting to see how his career unfolds from here.
Zhou joined Ferrari as a reserve driver alongside Antonio Giovinazzi in 2025, and during his time with the team, he was an integral part of the squad. Not only did he provide valuable support to the main drivers, but he also brought a level of enthusiasm and dedication that is hard to find. Additionally, Zhou was also part of the Ferrari Driver Academy from 2014 to 2018, which is a testament to his talent and potential as a driver.
Despite his impressive credentials, Ferrari have decided to move on from Zhou, and the reasons behind this decision are not entirely clear. However, in a statement released by the team, they expressed their gratitude for Guanyu’s commitment and contribution to the team. “We are grateful for Guanyu’s commitment and contribution to the team during his time as a reserve driver,” Ferrari stated. This statement suggests that the decision to part ways with Zhou was not taken lightly, and the team has a great deal of respect for his abilities as a driver.
The news of Zhou’s departure from Ferrari has sent shockwaves through the F1 community, with many fans and pundits expressing their surprise and disappointment at the decision. Zhou had been tipped by many to be a potential star of the future, and his departure from Ferrari has raised questions about his future in the sport. Will he be able to find a new team and secure a race seat, or will he be forced to take a step back and reassess his options?
One thing is certain, however: Zhou’s departure from Ferrari has left a void in the team that will need to be filled. The role of reserve driver is a crucial one, providing support to the main drivers and stepping in when needed. With Zhou gone, Ferrari will need to find a new driver to fill this role, and it will be interesting to see who they choose to replace him.
In the meantime, Zhou will be left to pick up the pieces and consider his next move. He has already shown that he has the talent and dedication to succeed in F1, and it is likely that he will be snapped up by another team looking to capitalize on his abilities. However, for now, he is left without a race seat for the 2026 F1 season, and it remains to be seen how his career will unfold from here.
As the 2026 F1 season approaches, there are many questions that remain unanswered. Who will replace Zhou as Ferrari’s reserve driver? Will Zhou be able to find a new team and secure a race seat? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world of F1 is always full of surprises, and the departure of Zhou Guanyu from Ferrari is just the latest twist in the ongoing saga of the sport.
In conclusion, the news of Zhou Guanyu’s departure from Ferrari is a significant development in the world of F1. While the reasons behind the decision are not entirely clear, it is evident that Ferrari have made a difficult choice in parting ways with a talented and dedicated driver. As the 2026 F1 season approaches, it will be interesting to see how Zhou’s career unfolds from here, and whether he will be able to find a new team and secure a race seat.
About the Author
