The Cadillac Formula 1 team is poised to operate primarily from its new Indiana-based facility, declared team principal Graeme Lowdon. However, he emphasized that the inclusion of an American driver in the team would only be on the basis of merit.
Last week, it was officially confirmed by F1 and the FIA that Cadillac had met all prerequisites to join the grid in 2026. This green light paves the way for the 11th team to gear up for its debut.
Previously, there had been implications that an American driver might join the Cadillac team. However, Lowdon clarified that this would only occur if the driver demonstrated their capability and worth. He acknowledged the possibility of selecting Californian driver Colton Herta, but noted that the decision may be beyond his control if Herta fails to secure an FIA Super License this year.
Lowdon emphasized, “We need to select drivers on merit. There are plenty of talented drivers in the pool. But until our entry was confirmed, we were unable to tap into the driver market. We’re now in a position to hold meaningful discussions, though it’s early days. We definitely want drivers who can add value to the overall program. And personally, I see no reason why an American driver can’t be selected on merit as well.”
The Cadillac F1 team has fewer uncertainties when it comes to its American connection. With facilities spread across the U.S, including Indiana, North Carolina, and Michigan, as well as Silverstone in the United Kingdom, Lowdon affirmed that the team’s nucleus would be in Fishers, Indiana.
“Formula 1 is a global sport, but this is an American team, it will race under an American flag,” Lowdon asserted. “The headquarters of the team is in Fishers. That’s where the team will be centered.”
In addition to its American base, Lowdon highlighted the practicality of having a European base to compete in the Formula 1, and Silverstone was chosen for that. Access to experienced talent was a significant factor in this decision.
While some functions will be performed at Silverstone, others will gradually be developed at Fishers. Lowdon revealed that their European logistics turnaround would be based in Silverstone, along with a small manufacturing facility, primarily for the production of wind tunnel model components.
Further reinforcing its American roots, Cadillac will also maintain a presence in Charlotte, North Carolina, where much of its activity with GM and the GM Technical Center is currently based. Lowdon noted the strategic advantage of having a footprint in Charlotte, the NASCAR capital, Indianapolis, the IndyCar capital, and Silverstone, the Formula 1 heartland.
Lowdon concluded, “In terms of buzz and excitement whenever you’re in a Cadillac Formula 1 team location, there’s just motor racing DNA all around it. And that’s another thing that I find super-attractive.”
