Cadillac Formula 1 team principal Graeme Lowdon highlighted the importance of hiring based on core values rather than just technical skills to build a cohesive squad for the 2026 season. In an exclusive interview, Lowdon discussed the team's rapid progress, including successful shakedowns and upcoming marketing reveals. The American outfit is generating buzz with a Super Bowl livery unveiling and a Times Square countdown installation.
Cadillac Formula 1, set to enter the grid as the 11th team in 2026 with drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, has faced intense recruitment challenges. The team, co-owned by General Motors, received over 140,000 job applications for around 600 positions across bases in Silverstone, UK; Indianapolis; and Charlotte, North Carolina. Lowdon noted in an Autosport interview that the headcount now approaches 600, with recruitment shifting toward the US headquarters in Indianapolis.
Lowdon stressed hiring on values to foster team unity: "We hire people based on the values as opposed to the technical ability... we can teach or improve technical ability, but we can't really change people's approach." This approach aims to create a squad where members are proud to join and stay. The team has met all deadlines, including engine fire-up, dyno testing, and shakedowns at Silverstone and Barcelona. At Silverstone, Perez drove the first hand-built Cadillac F1 car, a "really proud moment," Lowdon said.
Progress continues with a Bahrain test before the Australian Grand Prix debut in March. Lowdon invoked Mario Andretti's quote: "If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough," adding, "We're going as fast as we possibly can!" The team anticipates a challenging baptism under new regulations but prioritizes honesty and self-criticism.
Marketing efforts amplify excitement. Cadillac plans a livery reveal during the Super Bowl on February 9, reaching millions, alongside a 'Cadillac Countdown Box' in Times Square from February 6-9. CEO Dan Towriss described it as "an invitation for fans to join in our journey." Fans speculate on partnerships, noting drivers Bottas, Perez, and reserve Zhou Guanyu wearing matching Nike trainers in a team post, though no deal is confirmed. Existing ties include Tommy Hilfiger and Jim Beam.
Bottas, after Barcelona testing in a camouflage livery, said: "It’s great to be back... the main thing is we’ve got some running done." Lowdon reflected proudly on the Barcelona shakedown, crediting the team's dedication. Rivalry with Ford adds intrigue, but Lowdon views it as healthy for the sport.
