Amid mounting tensions surrounding the power units for the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations, a clear stance has emerged that directly involves Ferrari. Within the F1 paddock, while attention remains focused on the 2026 power units, some figures have chosen to speak out decisively. One of them is Graeme Lowdon, team principal of the upcoming Cadillac F1 team, which is set to make its debut in the World Championship and plans to use Ferrari engines.
The context is the 2026 regulatory overhaul, which introduces an equal division between the thermal and electric components of the power unit. This historic change has sparked suspicions and rumors, particularly around Mercedes and Red Bull, who some observers suggest may have identified potential loopholes in the interpretation of the compression ratio limit.
In this scenario, Ferrari has maintained a relatively low media profile. But precisely for this reason, Lowdon’s comments carry a distinct weight.
The British manager made it clear without hesitation what the American team’s position is on the engine they will use: “What I am very confident and satisfied about is that we have a completely legal engine,” he explained to Sky Sport News, emphasizing that Ferrari’s project strictly adheres to the parameters set by the regulations.
Diving into more detail, Lowdon reiterated that the 16:1 compression ratio limit leaves no room for ambiguous interpretation, at least from his perspective. According to his statements, Ferrari has followed the rules “to the letter,” providing Cadillac with a solid technical foundation on which to build its entry into Formula 1.
Beyond the power unit
Beyond regulatory compliance, the team principal also highlighted the quality of the relationship with Maranello. Ferrari will not only supply the power unit but also provide technical support and personnel, contributing to the overall development of the new American team structure.
“I cannot speak for other manufacturers or how they may have interpreted the regulations,” Lowdon added, “but for us, everything is extremely clear, written in black and white.”
At a time when the so-called “PU Gate” continues to fuel suspicions and technical meetings, Lowdon’s words represent a firm stance. This is not a defensive statement, but a declaration of confidence coming from someone who, in 2026, would have everything to lose if something were not fully compliant.
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