Budkowski puts Cadillac into ‘action mode’ as he targets a winning culture

New team principal says Cadillac is already working on priorities for its next phase

Marcin Budkowski has moved Cadillac into what he calls “action mode” as the Formula 1 team prepares for its next stage of development. In an interview with F1.com, the team principal said he is still meeting staff and gathering feedback, but has already identified areas to prioritise and improve.

Budkowski took over from Graeme Lowdon during the summer. He said his first task was to understand how the organisation was structured and operating before making changes, while continuing to spend time at the factory and in the garage.

“We are definitely in action mode, and we are prioritising and working hard on some of the areas that we need improving,” Budkowski said.

The transition came as Cadillac was settling into its Silverstone facility. Budkowski described the period as “a bit of a whirlwind” and said the team’s rapid preparation for its entry onto the Formula 1 grid had brought both striking progress and consequences from necessary shortcuts.

A chance to shape an ambitious operation

Budkowski, 49, has worked with championship-winning teams and the FIA, and previously served as Alpine’s executive director. After leaving that role in early 2022, he remained connected to the sport through punditry for Eleven Sports Poland and Viaplay.

He said Cadillac appealed because it remains in a building phase, giving him greater opportunity to influence its development than he would have at a long-established team. The project is backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors, and Budkowski cited its ambition, funding and motorsport-minded ownership as factors in his decision.

He also stressed that the challenge should be viewed realistically: Cadillac is entering a field of highly professional competitors who have spent years establishing their operations.

Listening first, then making decisions

Budkowski described his leadership approach as open-minded and direct. He said he wants to hear different perspectives and find the strongest solution, but expects the organisation to commit fully once a decision has been made.

“There's the time for discussion and there's a time for action,” he said. “From the moment we make a decision, and we go for it, I expect everybody to go strong.”

He added that trust and transparency are essential to building a cohesive team. His experience in media, he said, also gave him a wider view of how Formula 1 is perceived beyond the factory and circuit, as well as a way to remain connected to the sport during his time away from a team role.