Valtteri Bottas admitted that ‘time will tell’ whether the appointment of Marcin Budkowski as new Cadillac boss was the right decision for the team.
Cadillac announced during the summer shutdown that Graeme Lowdon would be replaced as team principal after setting the American team up for its F1 debut in 2026. CEO Dan Towriss said at the time that the decision was based on the ‘future direction of the team’ amid speculation that the firing was directly related to ongoing reliability issues for Cadillac.
Speaking to media ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Cadillac driver Valtteri Bottas shared his thoughts on Lowdon’s departure and new boss Budkowski.
“I think a big change like this in the middle of the season is always initially surprising. But then speaking with Dan, etc., explained to me all the reasons why this change. And I respect that.
“I think if we just keep everything the same, we’re never going to process it. So we’ve got to change some things. Obviously, it’s a real shame that it was Graeme who got out. Because, first of all, he’s a friend of mine.
“But I also think he’s done a great job setting up the team, getting ready to be on the grid in the first race. So my hat off for that. But at the same time, also welcoming Marcin. I don’t know him that well from the past. I’ve seen him around. But for sure, in the next days, we’re going to spend a lot of time together.”
Bottas: ‘I can’t predict the future’
When asked if he agreed with Cadillac’s decision, Bottas again highlighted his personal relationship with his former team principal, saying that ‘time will tell’ whether Budkowski’s appointment will bring more success to the team.
“Like with any change, time will always tell what change is good, what change is bad. So I can’t predict the future.
“But I’ve only, like I said, I don’t know Marcin yet that well. I haven’t worked with him in the past. I’ve worked with Graeme quite a bit in the past. And it’s just a personal relationship. But yeah, time will tell.”
Cadillac are currently the only team on the grid who are yet to score a point.
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