The Chinese driver, who brought his stint with Sauber to an end at the close of the 2024 season, was signed by Ferrari to work alongside Antonio Giovinazzi, with the Italian continuing his parallel programme in the World Endurance Championship.

For Zhou, it was effectively a homecoming, having previously spent four years with the Ferrari Driver Academy between 2015 and 2018. He then climbed the junior ladder before making his Formula 1 debut with Alfa Romeo in 2022.

Zhou spent three seasons alongside Valtteri Bottas, but managed to score just 16 points in total, finishing third from last twice before ending the 2024 season at the bottom of the standings.

“Grateful for Zhou Guanyu’s commitment and contribution as Ferrari Reserve Driver this season. Wishing him all the best ahead,” Ferrari shared in a post published across its official social media channels.

“Grazie! All the best guys. See you around!” replied Zhou in the comments under Ferrari’s post.

For now, it remains unclear what the Chinese driver’s next move will be, while Antonio Giovinazzi is expected to continue in his role as reserve driver into the 2026 season.