Cadillac F1 replaces Lowdon with Budkowski in leadership shift
Marcin Budkowski takes charge ahead of Dutch Grand Prix, replacing Graeme Lowdon in a move described by management as a strategic evolution for the 2026 season.
Cadillac Formula 1 has appointed Marcin Budkowski as its new team principal, replacing Graeme Lowdon in what the organisation describes as a planned leadership transition. The change comes as the 2026 newcomers remain the only team on the grid to have failed to score points across the first 11 rounds of the season.
Budkowski, a 49-year-old Polish engineer and former Alpine executive director, assumes the role ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix on 21 August. His appointment marks his return to the sport after leaving Alpine in 2022, with his first race in charge scheduled for the Sprint weekend following the four-week summer break.
Lowdon was appointed to the position in December 2024 and oversaw the team’s preparations and arrival on the grid. During his tenure, he was responsible for assembling the driver pairing of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. The team acknowledged his contributions in establishing the foundation during the build-up phase.
Cadillac chief executive Dan Towris stated that the appointment was a step in the continued evolution of the team. He emphasised that the goal was never simply to participate, but to build a next-generation outfit capable of competing at the front. Towris highlighted Budkowski’s technical expertise and strategic leadership as essential for developing the processes required for long-term success.
The leadership change occurs against a backdrop of significant performance challenges for the American-backed squad. With no points scored in the opening half of the calendar, the team faces the immediate pressure of the upcoming races in Zandvoort, broadcast live on Sky Sports F1.
