From Leclerc’s Ex-Engineer to Cadillac Technical Director: A Transition in WEC and IMSA
Xavier Marcos Padros, Charles Leclerc’s former race engineer at the Ferrari Formula 1 team, has made a remarkable career move. He has been appointed as the technical director of Cadillac’s LMDh sportscar project within the Cadillac V-Series.R programme, which spans the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the IMSA SportsCar Championship. This significant transition comes after Marcos Padros spent seven years at the prestigious Scuderia Ferrari.
The Journey of Xavier Marcos Padros
Xavier Marcos Padros started his career at Ferrari as a factory-based engineer back in 2018. His expertise and dedication led to him becoming a race engineer when Charles Leclerc joined Ferrari in the following year. Marcos Padros held this crucial position until May 2024 when he was replaced before the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix. He was then reassigned to other essential company programs by Ferrari, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in the motorsport industry.
New Faces at Cadillac Racing
The latest additions to the Cadillac Racing team include Keely Bosn, who has taken over the role of the LMDh program manager. Bosn officially assumed her position on January 1st, following her announcement in October. Another key figure in the team is Sean O’Shea, who is now the propulsion manager focusing on the 5.5-liter normally-aspirated V8 and the spec hybrid system powering the V-Series.R. O’Shea brings his experience from Bosch Motorsport, where he was involved in Mazda’s diesel racing programs in sportscars.
Redefining Management at Cadillac Racing
The management structure at Cadillac Racing has undergone significant changes with Laura Wontrop Klauser transitioning her role as GM’s sportscar program manager to Keely Bosn. Another noteworthy change is Jessica Dane taking over as the manager of the Z06 GT3.R project, succeeding Klauser. This restructuring reflects the dynamic nature of the motorsport industry and the constant need for fresh perspectives and expertise.
In the fast-paced world of motorsport, individuals like Xavier Marcos Padros and the new faces at Cadillac Racing exemplify the dedication, skill, and adaptability required to thrive in this competitive environment. Their journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and managers looking to make their mark in the world of racing.
