In a stunning twist of fate, former Ferrari star Xavi Marcos is making waves with his anticipated return to Formula 1, this time under the banner of Cadillac. Once celebrated as the race engineer for Charles Leclerc, Marcos found himself unceremoniously replaced by Bryan Bozzi ahead of the 2024 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, prompting him to depart from the Scuderia and embrace a new chapter with the American powerhouse.
Marcos has spent the past year immersed in Cadillac’s ambitious World Endurance Championship (WEC) and IMSA SportsCar Championship initiatives, sharpening his skills and strategy as the newly appointed technical director for Cadillac’s LMDh project. However, the allure of F1 has proven irresistible, and he is shifting gears yet again, now focusing on Cadillac’s much-anticipated entry into the Formula 1 arena in 2026, where he will serve as the chief race engineer.
Cadillac is set to make its grand entrance as the 11th team on the F1 grid, kicking off their campaign with Ferrari power units. But that’s just the beginning. By 2028, they are expected to solidify their presence with a partnership that will see them integrate a General Motors power unit, a crucial step towards securing competitive advantage in the fast-paced world of F1.
The team has already begun to shape its roster, announcing that Carlo Pasetti and John Howard will act as race engineers for drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, respectively. Marcos will oversee their efforts as the chief race engineer, positioning himself as a pivotal figure in this exciting new venture.
As Cadillac prepares for the 2026 season, their lineup boasts impressive credentials, with Bottas and Perez bringing a combined total of 16 Grand Prix victories to the table—arguably making it one of the most seasoned duos in the sport. Their selection marks a strategic decision by Cadillac to secure experienced talent, especially in light of earlier rumors linking them to less experienced drivers like Mick Schumacher and Colton Herta.
However, team principal Graeme Lowdon remains grounded amid the excitement. He openly acknowledges the uphill battle ahead, foreseeing that Cadillac may struggle initially, likely finding themselves at the back of the pack in their debut season. Lowdon has candidly stated, “I expect them to be running right at the very back of the pack in 2026,” with aspirations of showcasing their true potential only after General Motors comes on board in 2028.
The strategic signing of young American talent Herta as a reserve driver further underscores Cadillac’s long-term vision, indicating a commitment to nurturing future stars while establishing their foothold within the elite ranks of Formula 1. As the automotive giant gears up for its moment in the global spotlight, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if they can indeed turn their ambitious plans into reality.
