Cadillac has appointed Marcin Budkowski as the new Team Principal, marking a significant leadership change during the manufacturer’s debut season in Formula 1®. The announcement came on August 12, 2026, with Budkowski set to take charge starting from the Zandvoort race weekend.
Budkowski brings extensive experience to Cadillac, having previously served as Executive Director at Alpine until 2022 and held the role of FIA technical chief. Before joining Cadillac, he had been working as a television pundit in Poland. His appointment follows a planned transition, with Graeme Lowdon stepping down from the Team Principal position.
This leadership change is part of Cadillac’s strategy to strengthen their Formula 1® operation as they move beyond the initial build phase of their first season. Dan Towriss, Cadillac’s CEO, emphasized Budkowski’s technical expertise and leadership skills as essential for evolving the team into a more competitive outfit. Budkowski’s focus will be on maximizing car development within the cost cap framework and fostering a winning mindset within the organisation.
Marcin Budkowski’s Formula 1® background is broad, including roles at Alpine, FIA, Prost, Ferrari, and McLaren. His return to the paddock after a period away from team management is seen as a move to bring technical insight and operational discipline to Cadillac’s fledgling programme. The team aims to build an elite organisation focused on precision and continuous performance improvements.
While the announcement does not specify any immediate changes to the driver lineup or detailed performance expectations, it highlights Cadillac’s intent to accelerate their development and competitiveness in the championship. Budkowski’s appointment reflects a common approach among new teams to bring in experienced leadership to navigate the complexities of Formula 1® racing and regulations.
As Cadillac progresses through its first season, this leadership adjustment signals a shift from foundational development to a more performance-oriented phase. Budkowski’s role will be critical in balancing technical progress with the financial constraints imposed by the cost cap, a key factor in modern Formula 1® team management.
The change in team principal is a notable development for Cadillac’s Formula 1® journey, underscoring the challenges new entrants face in establishing themselves in the sport. Budkowski’s experience and leadership are expected to provide stability and direction as the team seeks to improve its competitiveness during the remainder of the season.