On September 3, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team revealed that Colton Herta, a nine-time winner in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, will take on the role of test driver as the team prepares to enter the FIA Formula 1 World Championship in 2026. This appointment marks a significant step for both Herta and Cadillac’s debut in the sport.
At 25 years old, Herta’s return to European racing comes after his early experience in the region, where he first competed in 2015. As a second-generation racer and son of INDYCAR victor Bryan Herta, he quickly made a name for himself in Euroformula Open, securing four wins, six podiums, and five pole positions over two seasons. He also competed in six British F3 races, achieving three podium finishes including a victory at the iconic Brands Hatch circuit before moving back to America in 2017.
Colton Herta’s Ambitions and Reflections on Joining Cadillac F1
Speaking on his new role, Herta expressed enthusiasm and determination:
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team as a test driver,”
he said.
This is a dream opportunity, and one I’ve been working toward for a long time. To be part of Cadillac F1’s entry at such a pivotal time is something I couldn’t pass up.”
He further added,
“My dream has always been to race in Formula 1, and I see this move as a huge step toward that goal. For now, my focus is on giving everything I can to Cadillac F1, helping build a competitive team.”
Summary of Herta’s Racing Career and Achievements
Herta’s career includes 116 starts in the NTT INDYCAR SERIES, where he earned nine wins, 16 pole positions, and has led over 1,000 laps. Racing for Harding Steinbrenner Racing and Andretti Global over seven seasons, he became the youngest winner in INDYCAR history at the Circuit of the Americas in 2019, at just under 19 years old.
Beyond INDYCAR, Herta has found success in sports car racing, achieving multiple class wins in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, including victories at the Rolex 24 At Daytona in 2019 and 2022, as well as an overall win at the 12 Hours of Sebring in 2024.
Cadillac’s Strategy as They Build Their Formula 1 Team
Herta’s move to the testing role is part of TWG Motorsports’ transition within Cadillac’s Formula 1 project. He is the first test driver to be named among the team’s initial lineup, which also includes experienced Formula 1 racers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as the race drivers for the debut season. Additional details about Herta’s racing activities in 2026 will be shared later.
Graeme Lowdon, team principal of Cadillac Formula 1, welcomed Herta’s appointment:
“We are delighted to welcome Colton Herta as a test driver,”
he stated, highlighting Herta’s impressive skill and maturity.
“Colton is an exceptionally talented racer with proven speed, race craft and maturity well beyond his years. His experience in top-level American motorsport as part of the TWG Motorsport family makes him an ideal fit for this role, and he will bring valuable and fresh insight, perspective, and energy to our team as we continue to build for the future.”
Lowdon emphasized the significance of having an American driver represent the American team on the world stage:
“Having an American driver join an American Formula 1 team is a hugely significant moment, not only for our team but for American motorsport as a whole. Colton represents the passion, ambition and competitive spirit that define the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, and we are proud to have him carry the American flag with us on the world stage.”
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Cadillac and Colton Herta
Colton Herta’s addition as test driver symbolizes Cadillac’s commitment to building a competitive presence in Formula 1 with a strong connection to American racing talent. His proven track record and youthful energy are expected to provide valuable input as the team develops its car and race strategies ahead of its 2026 debut.
For Herta, this opportunity offers a pathway toward fulfilling his long-held ambition to compete at the highest level of motorsport. As Cadillac’s Formula 1 campaign progresses, fans and industry insiders alike will watch closely to see how this American pairing fares in one of the world’s most demanding sporting arenas.
