Guenther Steiner: 'Right People' Key to Cadillac F1 Success

Why it matters:

Guenther Steiner, former Haas F1 Team Principal, emphasizes that securing the "right people" is the most critical factor for Cadillac F1 to succeed as they prepare to join the grid in 2026. His insights come from his instrumental role in establishing Haas in 2016.

The big picture:

Cadillac is set to become the first new F1 team since Haas, making its highly anticipated debut in the 2026 season. The team has already made significant moves in its preparations, including high-profile recruitments both on and off the track.

The details:

• Key hires: Cadillac has confirmed veteran drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez will race for them in 2026. Together, they bring 527 F1 starts and 16 race wins. Off-track, the team has brought in former Renault figures Nick Chester as Chief Technical Officer and Rob White as Chief Operations Officer. Pat Symonds, a former title-winning technical director and F1's ex-Chief Technical Officer, has also joined.
• Steiner's philosophy: Steiner, who departed Haas at the end of the 2023 season, states that new teams must be "very picky" during the hiring process. He believes that the individuals brought on board will ultimately determine the team's success or failure.
• Adapting to challenges: Beyond initial hiring, Steiner highlights the necessity of swiftly making changes if personnel don't meet expectations, describing this as one of the biggest challenges for team leadership.

What's next:

Cadillac F1 will continue to build its team and infrastructure ahead of its 2026 debut, with Steiner's advice underscoring the ongoing importance of strategic personnel management.