In a significant shake-up, Cadillac has removed Graeme Lowdon from his position as team principal and installed Marcin Budkowski as his successor. This move is characterized by the team as a premeditated shift in leadership. Budkowski, who last worked in F1 as the executive director at Alpine before departing in 2022, steps into his new role with Cadillac yet to score a point in the 2026 season after 11 rounds.
His inaugural race at the helm will be the Dutch Grand Prix, scheduled from August 21-23, marking the season's resumption after a four-week summer break. Lowdon, appointed in December 2024, oversaw the team's preparation and entry into F1, including assembling a driver lineup of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. According to Cadillac F1 Team CEO Dan Towriss, "Marcin's appointment is another crucial step in the evolution of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, aimed at building a next-generation team capable of competing at the forefront." Towriss emphasized that the goal from the outset was not merely to participate in F1 but to create a team that could win, stating, "Marcin brings exceptional F1 experience, technical expertise, and strategic leadership that will strengthen our organization and help us develop the winning mindset, tools, and processes required for long-term success." The team's statement framed the change as part of a planned transition, although there was no prior indication that Lowdon's tenure would be so brief.
While it's not surprising that a new team like Cadillac has struggled to score points, the frequency of technical issues leading to retirements may have contributed to the decision. The team has seen its reliability worsen over the season, with both cars finishing a race only once in the last seven events.
Towriss expressed gratitude to Lowdon for his role in establishing the team, acknowledging his contributions to the team's foundation. In a virtual press conference, Towriss confirmed that the decision to replace Lowdon was his, initiated a few months prior as part of evaluating the team's next phase. He noted the process was recent, with Lowdon informed only hours before the public announcement. Budkowski, with his experience at Prost, Ferrari, McLaren, the FIA, and most recently Alpine, is tasked with turning the team's fortunes around.
He emphasized the need to maximize car development within the cost cap, build an elite organization with a winning mindset, and execute with precision. His focus will be on aligning the team's resources and decision-making processes to improve performance.
The Dutch Grand Prix, where Budkowski will make his debut as team principal, will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.