Cadillac F1 plans to enter Formula 1 with bold intent, aiming to inspire fans by bringing the American dream to the global racing stage.
Cadillac is setting its sights on Formula 1, not just to race but to represent something bigger, the American dream.
While Haas F1 remains the only current American team, its deep ties to Italy through Ferrari and Dallara have made it feel less rooted in the U.S. For Cadillac, that opens up an opportunity.
Starting next year, the brand plans to step in as the team that truly resonates with American fans.
Graeme Lowdon, who leads the Cadillac F1 project, believes the brand name alone holds weight. But the ambition goes beyond branding.
The goal is to build a fully American team, including developing its own engines, and become a genuine U.S. constructor in the world of F1.
“We’re building an American team, make no mistake,” Lowdon told. “Sure, my accent might not sound American, but America represents something powerful to people around the world.”
One thing that sets Cadillac apart, he says, is its deep connection to the idea of the American dream, a spirit of ambition, hard work, and opportunity.
“That’s what we want to embody. We’re giving everyone the tools and the direction. We work hard, and we make things happen.”
Cadillac is entering the sport at a time when Formula 1 is booming in the U.S. Since Liberty Media took over, F1’s American fan base has exploded. And that’s something Lowdon doesn’t take lightly.
“Formula 1’s biggest strength is its fans,” he said. “They’re passionate, growing in number, and incredibly engaged. Especially in the U.S., people don’t hold back. If they love something, they make it known, and that’s refreshing.”
For Cadillac, success won’t come from flashy marketing or gimmicks. The focus is on building real passion and connection with fans.
“It has to be authentic,” Lowdon added. “Because without the fans, there’s nothing. They’re the oxygen of this sport. Without them, the whole thing fades. That’s why I was so determined to help bring another team into Formula 1, not just as a professional, but as a fan myself. I want to see more cars on the grid.”
Lowdon: Cadillac F1 Has All the Right Ingredients
Graeme Lowdon explains why he joined Cadillac’s F1 bid, pointing to strong backing, real ambition and racing pedigree across motorsport.
Graeme Lowdon didn’t need much convincing when he was asked to lead the Cadillac Formula 1 project.
For him, the opportunity to work with a major manufacturer on what could become the sport’s eleventh team was too compelling to pass up.
“It’s like baking a really good cake,” Lowdon told. “When you look at the ingredients and they’re all high quality, then if the result doesn’t taste right, the problem isn’t the ingredients. It’s the chef. And this project has some very attractive ingredients.”
One of those key elements is the team’s owner, The Wagner Group (TWG), which Lowdon believes is only beginning to be recognized for its deep involvement in motorsport.
“When you look at TWG’s portfolio, it’s impressive. There’s NASCAR, IndyCar, Indy NXT, Supercars, Formula E. As someone who has worked in racing for a long time, seeing that kind of ambition made me think this was something special.”
Lowdon was also drawn by the scale and seriousness that Cadillac and its parent company General Motors bring to motorsport. He’s seen their commitment firsthand over the years.
“What I admire about GM is that when they enter a racing series, they do it properly. I’ve been going to Le Mans for many years, and I honestly can’t remember a time when there wasn’t a GM car on track. Whether it’s been a Corvette or a prototype, they’ve always been there, and they’ve always been competitive.”
Beyond the technology and resources, there was also something personal. Meeting Mario Andretti, one of the most respected figures in the history of the sport, left a lasting impression on Lowdon.
“I’ll never forget the first time I spoke with Mario. Within two minutes, you understand exactly why he became a world champion. He has that presence, that clarity. When someone like him is involved and all the other pieces are there, you don’t walk away. You say yes, and you commit.”
For Lowdon, it’s more than just a job. It’s a chance to be part of something meaningful in a sport he knows and loves. With Cadillac’s vision and backing, he believes the team has the foundation to make a real impact in Formula 1.
Bottas Eyes F1 Return if Cadillac Offers Long Deal
Valtteri Bottas is ready for an F1 comeback but insists only a clear, long-term project like Cadillac will get him onboard.
Valtteri Bottas says he’s open to joining Cadillac’s new Formula 1 team, which is set to enter the sport next year. While the former Mercedes driver is currently focused on his reserve role, he remains alert to any opportunities for a full-time return in 2026.
“My goal is to race again,” Bottas said. “So I need to stay aware of what’s happening. Of course, I’m dedicated to my current role, but at the same time, I have to keep my eyes and ears open.”
For Bottas, it’s not just about getting back into a car. He wants a long-term project that offers more than just a one-season deal.
“Cadillac joining F1 is exciting,” he said. “What motivates me is being part of something from the ground up. A multi-year commitment with clear goals, that’s what I need right now. I don’t see the point of doing a single season just to say I’m still in F1.”
Starting fresh with a new team like Cadillac appeals to Bottas, who believes in building something lasting rather than chasing short-term results. Still, he remains realistic. If a seat opens up at a competitive team, he would consider it.
“If there’s a chance to fight for strong points, podiums, or even wins, I’d definitely be interested. But right now, it’s hard to know how things will unfold.”
Retirement isn’t on his mind just yet. “I don’t feel done with this sport,” he said. “I believe I still have a few good years in me and plenty to contribute. But as always in F1, nothing is guaranteed. You never really know if another shot will come.”
Bottas also reflected on his time with Alfa Romeo, where he played a key role in developing the limited-edition 33 Stradale supercar. He’s even getting one for his personal collection — a red one, of course — to park next to his Mercedes-AMG One.
“I was involved in tuning the engine response and fine-tuning the car’s balance on track. I think it was actually the first day the car hit the circuit, so it was cool to get that experience and give my feedback.”
Would he like a Cadillac in his garage too? Bottas didn’t hesitate. “I like the Escalade. And the Ghostbusters car, the Ecto-1. That one’s pretty iconic.”
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