Cadillac F1 Draws Criticism After Replacing Team Principal Who Built the Squad

Cadillac F1 has dismissed Graeme Lowdon as team principal, a decision that has surprised many in the racing world given his central role in getting the team off the ground.

Lowdon was the first executive to join Cadillac and was tasked with assembling the entire operation from scratch, hiring staff and putting infrastructure in place across multiple levels. His efforts were widely credited with getting the team onto the grid.

The team has now chosen Marcin Budkowski, a former Renault executive director and FIA technical chief, to lead going forward. The shift appears driven by a desire for more technical expertise to help develop the car, as Cadillac still trails more experienced teams.

Speaking on the Up To Speed podcast, former F1 personality Will Buxton, alongside David Coulthard and Naomi Schiff, praised Lowdon's work. Buxton said Lowdon's experience from Manor/Marussia made him ideal for the building phase, adding that Cadillac likely wouldn't be on the grid without him.

He noted Lowdon had admitted his expertise had a narrow window and may not have been the long-term answer.

The move may prove tough but necessary if Budkowski can close the performance gap.