Colton Herta's Road to Formula 1: Test Driver for Cadillac and Potential F2 Ascent

The much-anticipated arrival of Cadillac in Formula 1 in 2026 is poised to transform American motorsport, and IndyCar sensation Colton Herta is set to play a pivotal role in this exciting new chapter. With his recent confirmation as a test driver for the Cadillac F1 team, Herta takes a significant stride towards his long-held ambition of competing in the pinnacle of global racing, while simultaneously bolstering the burgeoning American presence in Formula 1.

Colton Herta's Journey: From IndyCar Star to F1 Aspirations

At just 24 years old, Colton Herta has already established himself as one of IndyCar's most accomplished drivers. He holds the impressive record as the youngest race winner in the series' history, achieving this feat in 2019. Boasting nine wins and 16 pole positions across 116 starts, Herta's exceptional talent and speed are undeniable. His versatility extends beyond IndyCar, as evidenced by his test drive of a 2021 McLaren F1 car in 2022, where he showcased his adaptability to the unique demands of Formula 1 machinery.

Herta's move to Cadillac ensures his continued development within the TMG Motorsports family, which also oversees Andretti Global’s IndyCar team. His deep understanding of high-performance racing and his proven pace make him an invaluable asset as Cadillac meticulously prepares for its anticipated F1 debut.

Overcoming the Formula 1 Super License Hurdle

Despite his impressive racing resume, Colton Herta faces a crucial hurdle in his quest for a full-time Formula 1 seat: the sport's rigorous Super License point system. This system, which currently does not fully acknowledge IndyCar achievements, means Herta lacks the necessary 40 points required. However, Cadillac is committed to helping him bridge this gap.

A promising pathway involves a potential move to Formula 2 (F2), where strong performances would allow Herta to accumulate the essential points. Furthermore, his participation in Free Practice 1 (FP1) sessions with Cadillac would also contribute to his Super License tally. While an F2 program has not yet been formally confirmed, both Herta and the Cadillac team view it as a realistic and strategic option for securing a future F1 race seat.

A Strategic Alliance: Boosting American Motorsport in F1

The partnership between an American driver like Colton Herta and an American F1 team like Cadillac holds immense significance for American motorsport. Cadillac Team Principal Graeme Lowdon has underscored Herta’s exceptional talent, valuable experience, and strong work ethic as critical components in building a competitive Formula 1 team from the ground up. Herta, in turn, has expressed profound excitement, describing the test driver role as a "huge step" towards realizing his lifelong F1 dream while actively contributing to Cadillac’s ambitious long-term success.

With his proven speed, adaptability, and the robust backing of a major American manufacturer, Colton Herta’s compelling journey to Formula 1 is undoubtedly one to follow closely. Whether achieved through F2 competition, strategic FP1 sessions, or continued development as a dedicated test driver, his path exemplifies both profound personal ambition and the accelerating momentum of American motorsport on the global stage of Formula 1.