Key FIA Figure Behind 2026 Rules Reportedly Joins Cadillac

Jason Somerville, the FIA's Head of Aerodynamics and a key architect of the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 regulations, is rumored to be leaving the governing body to join Cadillac. This high-profile move, expected to occur after a six-month gardening leave, has raised eyebrows in the F1 paddock due to Somerville's intimate knowledge of the sport's future technical direction.

Why it matters:

• Somerville's departure is significant because he has been instrumental in shaping the 2026 F1 regulations from their inception, giving him unparalleled insight into their design philosophy and potential loopholes. His move to Cadillac, an aspiring new F1 team, could provide them with a substantial competitive advantage as they prepare for their debut.
• This transfer highlights the ongoing 'brain drain' from the FIA to F1 teams, a trend that could influence the balance of power and the interpretation of future rules.

The details:

• Extensive F1 Career: Somerville's career spans decades within Formula 1, starting as an aerodynamicist at Williams in the late '90s. He later served as deputy head of aerodynamics at Toyota Motorsport and held Head of Aerodynamics roles at Lotus, Williams (again), and for Formula 1 itself, before joining the FIA in February 2022.
• 2026 Regulations Architect: As the FIA's Head of Aerodynamics, Somerville has been directly involved in the development and finalization of the crucial 2026 technical regulations, particularly concerning aerodynamics.
• Cadillac's F1 Entry: Cadillac is set to debut as F1's eleventh team in 2026, making Somerville's potential arrival strategically vital for their technical preparations.
• Gardening Leave: Reports indicate Somerville will undergo an estimated six-month gardening leave, a common practice to prevent immediate transfer of sensitive information.
• Perez's Cadillac Test: Coincidentally, last week, Sergio Perez reportedly tested a Ferrari SF-23 (in a unique all-black livery) at Imola under the watchful eyes of Cadillac team boss Graeme Lowdon and team manager Peter Crolla. While the car was a Ferrari, this test indicates Cadillac's active preparations for their F1 entry, hinting at their ambitions for 2026.

Between the lines:

While Somerville's exact role at Cadillac remains undisclosed, his deep understanding of the 2026 aerodynamic rules could prove invaluable. He essentially possesses the 'answer sheet' to a major part of the future regulations, offering Cadillac a unique opportunity to optimize their car design from day one. This could lead to a significant competitive edge for the new entrant.

What's next:

• The official confirmation of Somerville's move is pending, but if it materializes, it will likely prompt discussions about potential conflicts of interest and the need for stricter protocols regarding FIA personnel transitioning to F1 teams, especially those involved in rule-making. His insights could accelerate Cadillac's development program, potentially making them a more formidable competitor than typically expected of a new team.