American driver Colton Herta has been named the test driver for Cadillac’s Formula 1 team as it prepares for its inaugural season in 2026. This development follows the earlier announcement of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez as full-time drivers for the new American F1 outfit.
At just 25 years old, Herta transitions from a successful IndyCar career, where he claimed nine wins, to focus entirely on Formula 1. He will not compete in IndyCar in 2026, as Cadillac aims to secure him a seat in Formula 2 to accumulate the required super license points and integrate him fully into the F1 environment.
Colton Herta Embraces His Chance to Pursue an F1 Dream
Herta expressed excitement about his new role with Cadillac, stating,
“My dream has always been to race in Formula 1, and I see this move as a huge step towards that goal. For now, my focus is on giving everything I can to Cadillac F1, helping build a competitive team.”
His entry marks a noteworthy moment for American motorsport in F1, following recent appearances by Logan Sargeant, the last full-time American driver through 2025, and Alexander Rossi, who made several starts in 2015.
Cadillac’s F1 team is a joint venture between General Motors and TWG Motorsports, broadening the field to 22 cars—the largest grid since 2016. The team’s lineup features a balance of experienced veterans Bottas and Pérez alongside emerging talent like Herta, reflecting a clear strategy to build competitive strength.
Significance of Herta’s Role for Cadillac’s Formula 1 Entry
As test driver, Herta will play a vital role in Cadillac’s preparations, participating in free practice sessions and providing technical feedback crucial to car development. Graeme Lowdon, the team principal, praised Herta’s abilities:
“We are delighted to welcome Colton Herta as a Test Driver. Colton is an exceptionally talented racer with proven speed, race craft, and maturity well beyond his years.”
This combination of youth and experience is key to Cadillac’s ambitions in Formula 1, where establishing a competitive presence from the outset will be essential. Herta’s involvement helps position the American team to grow steadily while nurturing future race talent within their program.
