Marc Hynes, well-known as the former manager of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, has taken on the role of chief racing officer at the Cadillac Formula 1 team. This appointment was confirmed ahead of the 2026 F1 season and aims to support Cadillac as it prepares to establish itself on the grid. Hynes brings extensive motorsport experience, having previously led Hamilton’s affairs between 2015 and 2021 while serving as CEO of the Project 44 management company.
Background and Previous Collaboration with Lewis Hamilton
Hynes is a former British F3 champion and played a crucial role during Hamilton’s career peak as his manager. The pair reunited as Hamilton switched from Mercedes to Ferrari for the 2025 season. That campaign was challenging for Hamilton, marking his first F1 season without a podium since his debut in 2007. Ahead of 2026, Hamilton and Hynes have parted ways, allowing Hynes to transition to Cadillac at a pivotal moment in the sport’s evolution.
Hynes’ Role in Integrating Cadillac’s Racing Operations
As chief racing officer, Hynes will focus on maximizing performance by coordinating efforts between the team’s driving and engineering departments. Cadillac’s statement highlighted that he will work to
“ensure peak performance throughout the team’s racing operations”
and improve collaboration between sporting and technical units. Another key responsibility will be managing Cadillac’s driver program, which includes race drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, reserve driver Zhou Guanyu, and test driver Colton Herta.
Hynes said,
“Building a new team in Formula 1 is a rare challenge, and I’m excited to help shape the culture, processes, and performance standards from the very beginning.”
“We have a strong and diverse driver line-up, and my focus will be on creating the clarity, alignment, and discipline needed to allow everyone – drivers and engineers alike – to perform at their very best.”
Support from Team Principal and Existing Connections
Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac’s team principal and a former sporting director who previously worked at Marussia, emphasized Hynes’ valuable experience. He pointed out the importance of Hynes’ ability to connect key team members.
“As we enter our debut season, having someone of Marc’s calibre guiding our racing operations is a major asset for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team.”
Hynes has prior ties with Cadillac through his involvement with Zhou Guanyu’s management, who recently joined as the team’s reserve driver after a stint in the same position at Ferrari. His past relationship with Lowdon also stretches back to 2010, when Hynes worked as a driver coach at Virgin Racing, Marussia’s earlier incarnation.
Preparing for a Successful Launch at the 2026 Season
Cadillac continues its preparations for the 2026 season with recent testing activities. The team conducted a filming day in Bahrain just before the second pre-season test, underscoring their commitment to a competitive debut. Hynes’ leadership in coordinating efforts across departments and managing drivers will be critical as Cadillac aims to make a strong entrance in Formula 1.
The appointment of Marc Hynes represents a significant step for Cadillac’s F1 project, promising a focused and disciplined approach to building a race-winning team. With a well-rounded driver lineup and experienced management, Cadillac may soon emerge as an important contender in the evolving F1 landscape.
