Cadillac, along with its American proprietors, TWG Motorsports and its parent corporation General Motors, exhibits considerable aspiration. This drive is evident in their initiative to unveil the team’s inaugural racing livery during a Super Bowl intermission commercial, yet this represents merely one instance of the extensive efforts undertaken by the entity. After swiftly assembling a workforce of hundreds for its European operations in Silverstone, the team has also commissioned an advanced facility in Fishers, Indiana, slated to serve as its primary central office and manufacturing plant.
Accomplished grand prix victors Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez have joined the roster, bringing with them substantial expertise and a thorough understanding of the requisites for a premier Formula 1 team, acquired during their tenures with champion constructors Mercedes and Red Bull.
Sergio Perez, Valtteri Bottas, Cadillac
Photo by: Cadillac Communications
Securing a Place on the Starting Line
Cadillac’s initial hurdle was simply qualifying for the grid in Australia, as their entry into the series was only confirmed in November 2024. The organization could not delay for official approval to establish its emerging international team; consequently, hiring efforts significantly accelerated from that moment, now encompassing over 500 personnel.
To date, Cadillac has successfully adhered to all self-imposed internal deadlines, positioning itself among the initial teams to conduct test laps with its 2026 vehicle. Lowdon informed Autosport, “We faced extremely constrained schedules.” He added, “However, I am genuinely proud that the team has achieved every milestone. I have previously stated with conviction that we are a team maintaining its schedule, and we continue to do so, which I consider a monumental accomplishment for every member of the squad.”
Sergio Perez, Cadillac F1 Team
Photo by: Cadillac Communications
Cadillac’s Aspirations for the 2026 Season?
However, as Formula 1’s inaugural new team in ten years, Cadillac fully recognizes the difficulties that lie ahead during its debut season and subsequently. The team did not complete an exceptionally large number of laps, totaling 164, during the Barcelona shakedown, and is preparing for an intensive fortnight in Bahrain to resolve remaining issues. Utilizing Ferrari power units and gearboxes is expected to provide a strong foundation, though the ultimate competitiveness of its debut chassis remains to be determined. Considering the extensive uncertainties characterizing this new phase of F1, setting a precise constructor’s championship rank is presently futile; nevertheless, Cadillac aims to establish itself as a credible competitor from the outset, demonstrating its earnest commitment to this endeavor.
Lowdon remarked, “Once the chequered flag falls in Abu Dhabi, we will have the opportunity to reflect.” He elaborated, “This represents an uncharted journey for every team due to the revised regulatory framework and new power units. It will introduce a novel approach to racing, and it is exceedingly challenging to define definitive goals under such circumstances. Nevertheless, we meticulously scrutinize every action we take.”
Regardless of the outcomes during its initial season, Lowdon emphasized the paramount importance of team cohesion and learning from errors. He asserted that only a culture of openness and accountability, devoid of finger-pointing, can facilitate their progress, and the team intentionally sought out personnel who embody this philosophy.
Lowdon stated, “In my view, this is a collaborative sport. The fundamental aspect of team sports involves fostering complete candor and sincere feedback among members.” He continued, “Should errors occur, they are an acceptable part of the process. We operate as a unified entity, supporting one another. This is characteristic of high-performing teams, and we are striving to construct an exceptionally strong group. Therefore, we will maintain self-criticism, but always with beneficial intentions.”
