McLaren boss defends Cadillac as new asset to F1

Zak Brown has thrown his support behind Cadillac’s upcoming Formula 1 entry, insisting the American brand will bring more positives than problems to the paddock.

The McLaren CEO told the Dutch Formule 1 magazine that while early fears about sponsorship and staffing shifts are understandable, the General Motors project is ultimately a net gain.

“In terms of employees, I think they'll poach more talent than they'll produce,” Brown smiled. “But that's fine. If someone chooses to work for a rival team, then as team principal I should ask myself what I can do better.”

Following Michael Andretti’s decision to step back, the 2026-bound team now has a F1 base in Silverstone, a strategic move to anchor itself within F1’s core technical hub.

Driver rumours continue, with Valtteri Bottas and Felipe Drugovich among those tipped for seats.

Brown remains optimistic about the commercial impact. “Regarding sponsors, I think Cadillac will actually attract more new partners than it will take away,” he said.

“Will we get a better American TV deal, more American involvement? I think so. “Their sponsors and Cadillac will invest money in the sport, and ultimately, all the teams will benefit from that.”

While some rivals continue to raise concerns about prize fund dilution and market overlap, Brown isn’t convinced.

“I'm not worried about short-term problems, like losing a few employees or sponsors,” he added. “The contribution they make to the whole will be much greater.”