Colton Herta, the 25-year-old American racing talent, has joined Cadillac’s Formula 1 program as a test driver, a move that has drawn attention due to his transition from a competitive IndyCar career. The announcement comes as Cadillac prepares to enter the F1 grid in 2026, positioning Herta to play a crucial role while also pursuing opportunities in Formula 2, though his F2 contract has yet to be confirmed. This opportunity highlights Herta’s determination to adapt to new challenges despite some skepticism about stepping down from a full-time race seat.
Graeme Lowdon Defends Herta’s Shift to Testing Role
Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac’s F1 team principal, expressed strong support for Herta, emphasizing the driver’s abilities and mindset. Lowdon described Herta as a “proper racer” and praised his willingness to embrace a different role for the sake of long-term growth within the sport. According to Lowdon, this switch is a testament to Herta’s confidence in his own speed and skill, rather than a reflection of any loss of reputation.
The first thing I’d say about Colton is I really like the guy,
Lowdon said.
I’ve got to know him quite a bit over the last couple of years. I love his approach – he’s a proper racer.
—Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1 Team Principal
Lowdon acknowledged that some critics questioned Herta’s decision to move from a race-winning position in IndyCar to a less visible test driver spot, but insisted such a mindset is essential in racing. He added that merit remains the core principle for driver selections within the American-led team, with national ties considered only a bonus.
Impressive IndyCar Career and Fan Following
Herta has built an impressive record over eight years in the IndyCar Series, amassing nine wins, 19 podium finishes, and 16 pole positions. His most recent victory at the 2024 Music City Grand Prix in Nashville showcased his continued competitiveness. His addition to Cadillac’s F1 program is also expected to bring an established fan base and increased excitement around the team’s future in Formula 1.
It’s great for the fans and we’re seeing that already, the positive reaction to that announcement was huge. He’s bringing an established fan base to the sport as well.
—Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1 Team Principal
Future Prospects and Integration with Formula 2 Racing
Cadillac plans to integrate Herta’s development with multiple racing opportunities, including potential participation in Formula 2, to keep his skills sharp before the team officially debuts in F1. Lowdon outlined that the team is exploring various options for Herta beyond 2025, underscoring the strategic value of combining testing with competitive racing in the feeder series. This dual approach aims to prepare Herta effectively and maximize his impact on the team’s progress.
It’s a really good move for him, in my view, and for the team, and we’ll dovetail that with racing as well in F2 so he’ll still be keeping himself sharp from that perspective. We’re looking at a few different options for him for 2026 and Formula 2 is obviously one of them. There’s a lot of plus points in doing that.
—Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac F1 Team Principal
Significance of Cadillac’s Entry and Herta’s Role
As Cadillac prepares to become the 11th team on the Formula 1 grid in 2026, Colton Herta’s role as a test driver represents a strategic investment in talent development ahead of the team’s competitive debut. His move reflects a broader trend in motorsport, where drivers must sometimes navigate unconventional paths to reach the pinnacle of racing. If successful, Herta could become an important figure in Cadillac’s F1 future, symbolizing how adaptability and confidence can pave the way for American success on the global stage.
