Cadillac has publicly endorsed Ferrari’s power unit, with team principal Graeme Lowdon firmly defending the full legality of the 2026 engine and expressing complete confidence in the work carried out in Maranello.
The Cadillac F1 team, set to make its Formula 1 debut under the new 2026 regulations, has reiterated its trust in the Ferrari power unit that will power the American squad’s single-seaters. The confirmation came directly from team principal Graeme Lowdon, who spoke to Sky Sports News about the partnership and the ongoing technical discussions in the paddock.
The 2026 Formula 1 season will introduce a new generation of power units, defined by an equal split between electrical power and the internal combustion engine. This represents a major technical shift for the sport and has already sparked intense debate among teams and manufacturers.
In recent weeks, rumors have circulated about alleged technical loopholes identified by Mercedes and Red Bull, particularly concerning the limit on the compression ratio. According to Graeme Lowdon, however, this scenario does not involve Ferrari. Cadillac, as a new entrant to Formula 1, has also already taken to the track with the new engine.
“What I am very confident and happy about is that we have a completely legal engine,” said the Cadillac team principal. “With these power units, combustion cannot occur with a compression ratio higher than 16:1, and we know that Ferrari has followed the rules in a very rigorous way. That gives us a great deal of confidence.”
Technical support and Ferrari personnel within the Cadillac project
Graeme Lowdon explained that the collaboration with Ferrari goes far beyond the simple supply of a power unit, underlining the strength and depth of the relationship between the two organizations. “In terms of performance, we work with and support our engine partner to the maximum extent possible. We are very satisfied with the relationship we have,” he added. “I can’t speak for other manufacturers or how they may have interpreted the regulations, but for me everything is extremely clear, it’s written in black and white.”
The British executive also recalled his previous experiences working alongside the Maranello-based team. “I have worked with Ferrari several times in the past. They are great partners and an iconic name in Formula 1. Everyone who works there is a true racer.”
According to Lowdon, Ferrari will play an integral role in the growth of the Cadillac team from both a human and technical perspective. “They are not just supplying us with a power unit. They are also providing technical support, with people who will become part of our team. It’s fantastic to have them with us,” he concluded.
These comments further strengthen Cadillac’s belief that it has chosen a solid and reliable partner to face the challenges of Formula 1’s new technical era in 2026.
As the grid prepares for the most significant engine reset in over a decade, the transparency between Cadillac and Ferrari could prove to be a vital asset. While other manufacturers may find themselves under the FIA microscope, the American-Italian alliance appears focused on building a stable foundation. With the backing of Maranello’s engineering pedigree and Lowdon’s veteran leadership, Cadillac is positioning itself as a serious contender ready to prove its worth from the very first lights out in 2026.
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