Full Breakdown
Cadillac F1 Team Names Marcin Budkowski as New Team Principal Mid-Season
8/12/2026, 8:04:55 PM
Core Event: Leadership Change
On August 12, 2026 the Cadillac Formula 1® Team announced that Marcin Budkowski has assumed the role of team principal, replacing Graeme Lowdon with immediate effect. The change comes after 11 rounds in which the team has not yet scored a championship point.
Background & Context
Cadillac entered Formula 1 as the sport’s 11th constructor at the start of the 2026 season, fielding drivers Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas. Built under Graeme Lowdon’s leadership since December 2024, the car has struggled with brake-overheating issues and multiple retirements, leaving the team at the bottom of the constructors’ championship.
Data & Statistics
- Rounds completed before the change: 11
- Points scored: 0
- Best race finish: 13th place
- Drivers: Sergio Pérez (Mexico) and Valtteri Bottas (Finland)
Official Statements & Responses
Dan Towriss, the team’s chief executive, said the move is intended to maximise car development within the cost-cap framework and to instil a “winning mindset.” He also thanked Lowdon for establishing the project’s foundation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Marcin's appointment marks another important step in the continued evolution of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team,” — Dan Towriss, Cadillac F1 CEO
- “Cadillac Formula 1 Team has an extraordinary foundation and ambition,” — Marcin Budkowski, former Alpine director
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on how the change was framed. Cadillac’s statement calls it a “planned transition,” while some media describe it as a sudden replacement. No detailed explanation for Lowdon’s departure has been provided, nor are internal performance metrics beyond the lack of points disclosed. Details on Budkowski’s technical agenda under the cost-cap remain limited.
Why It Matters / Impact
Budkowski brings experience from Prost, Ferrari, McLaren, the FIA and Alpine. His appointment could streamline development and improve reliability, addressing the brake-overheating failures that have plagued the cars. The timing aligns with the Dutch Grand Prix, scheduled for August 21-23, giving the new principal an immediate chance to influence performance.
What’s Next
Cadillac’s next race is the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort (August 21-23). Budkowski will lead the team for the remainder of the 2026 season, aiming to turn the “extraordinary foundation” into points and higher finishes under the cost-cap constraints.
