Cadillac Recruits Former Ferrari Engineer for F1 Entry
Cadillac has appointed Xavi Marcos as its new head of engineering for the upcoming Formula 1 team set to join the grid in 2026. Marcos brings extensive experience from Ferrari, where he served as Charles Leclerc’s race engineer from 2019 until the 2024 Miami Grand Prix. His tenure at Ferrari included managing race strategy, performance optimization, and trackside operations during a period of competitive resurgence. The move strengthens Cadillac’s technical leadership as it prepares to become the eleventh team under FIA approval.
The Andretti Cadillac project, now fully under General Motors branding, continues building its organization with high-profile hires. Marcos joins a growing engineering staff focused on developing the power unit in collaboration with Ferrari for the initial seasons. Cadillac aims to leverage GM’s resources, including advanced simulation tools and manufacturing capabilities from its U.S. facilities. The team has established a base in the United States while maintaining European operations for track support.
This recruitment follows Cadillac’s confirmation as the 2026 entrant after resolving earlier disputes with Formula One Management. The FIA granted conditional approval pending commercial agreements, which were finalized earlier this year. Cadillac will operate as a customer team initially, receiving Ferrari power units under the new regulations emphasizing sustainable fuels and increased electrical deployment. The 2026 rules feature a 50-50 split between combustion and electric power, with MGU-K output rising to 350 kW.
Marcos’s expertise in driver performance and setup optimization proves valuable for a new entrant facing established competitors. Cadillac has also secured key personnel in aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics to accelerate development. The team targets competitiveness from its debut season, drawing on GM’s motorsport heritage in IndyCar and NASCAR. Construction of facilities progresses, with wind tunnel testing scheduled for next year.
The addition of Marcos signals Cadillac’s serious intent to challenge for points immediately upon entry. General Motors commits significant investment to the program, viewing F1 as a platform for technology transfer to road cars. The team plans a driver lineup announcement soon, focusing on a mix of experience and emerging talent. Cadillac enters during a regulation reset that levels opportunities for new manufacturers.
This hire underscores the appeal of the 2026 changes, attracting talent from top teams. Cadillac positions itself as the sole American-owned entry, emphasizing domestic engineering and manufacturing. The project advances toward full operational status ahead of pre-season testing. Formula 1 gains an additional constructor committed to long-term participation under the cost cap regime.
